The Life and Memories of Chris Roussel
Getting to know Chris Roussel
Although only 18 years old, Chris had lived an eventful and fun filled life that ended far too soon on February 2, 2009. He died while riding his motorcycle which represented his freedom, independence and self confidence. He will be greatly missed by his mother Suzanne Grice Roussel and father Buddy Roussel, brother Brent, step sisters Carlie and Mindy Pietsch and step brothers Nicholas, Jonathan and Joshua Roussel. He is survived by grandparents, Willis and Roddy Grice and Louis and Catherine Roussel all of Baton Rouge.
Unfortunately Chris has been portrayed in the media in a negative way so his legacy will be misunderstood by many. We believe he has been forgiven for his weaknesses and has more than paid for his transgressions with his reputation. We love you and will miss you greatly.
Chris attended Parkview Elementary School as a child. He then attended Calvary Christian for middle school. Chris graduated from Parkview Baptist High School in 2008.
Many describe Chris as cool, hip, witty, & funny. He was good looking, smart, kind to strangers, outgoing and eager to meet new people. He was polite and respectful to others and helpful around the neighborhood. Everyone knew him for his smile and his personality. These traits allowed him to have friends of all ages from 12 year olds to 70 years old. More than 500 people came to his funeral.
Chris loved music and knew lots of trivia about the bands, songs and history of music. He listened to country, rock, rap, even Jimmy Buffett and loved going to concerts more than anything else. With his friends he saw Kid Rock, Tool, 311, David Allen Coe as well as Cross Canadian Ragweed who he got to know personally. His quick dialing fingers helped him win concert tickets on the radio about once a month.
Chris liked to hang out with his friends… tell stories and plan adventures. Chris was a Master Bonfire Builder. Some of his best times were had around the fire on Friday and Saturday nights. He liked to go to parties and was often the life of the party. Never got into a fight, but didn't back away either.
Chris worked hard at the jobs he had and had his eye on the future. He worked in the kitchen at Cajun J's Restaurant for about 2 years where he met lots of friends. Hard work allowed him to provide for himself and even move into his own place when he was only 16 years old. He didn't care about money... content no matter how much cash he had in his pocket.
Chris' passions were many… including tattoos. On his chest was the Chinese symbol for Eternity that he got with his best friend and Cousin Kevin. He loved his mom and was working on a tattoo on his left shoulder with her initials surrounded by waves. Although he adopted the name "Ramblin Man" Chris really liked to be near home. Sometimes he would travel with his father Buddy to work or play, but could not wait to get home. He loved the river and all that it meant to him and his friends. He always knew the gossip around town, even when it wasn't about him. He was a rebel at heart with a free spirit and he touched the heart of many. He will be truly missed by all.
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