CASPER, WY –
It was with profound sadness that the historic Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity in Casper, WY family along with the medical community and Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate said goodbye to a dedicated physician and a longtime parishioner and vivid supporter, Louis J. Roussalis, MD who passed away peacefully on March 29, surrounded by the family he cherished so deeply.
His funeral was held on April 13 at his beloved Holy Trinity in Casper, WY with His Eminence Metropolitan Constantine of Denver officiating, assisted by Father Louis Christopulos and Father Daniel Payne.
Louis John Roussalis, M.D., was born on October 20, 1934, in Casper, Wyoming, to Coula J. (Georgitsi) and John E. Roussalis. Ηis family roots traced to Leonidion, Greece.
He attended Natrona County High School and graduated in 1957 from the University of Notre Dame with honors. In 1961 he earned his medical degree with honors from Tulane Medical School and finished his family practice internship and residency at the University of Kansas. After completing his residency, Lou joined the Air Force Reserve, and later moved back to Casper to open his family practice. Then in 1985, he co-founded InstaCare, the first walk-in medical clinic in Wyoming.
He dedicated more than 50 years to caring for his patients with skill, compassion, humor, and an unmistakable personal touch. Known to many simply as “Dr. Lou,” he formed lasting relationships with generations of families. He served as a preceptor for Creighton University medical students, acted as a clinical professor for the Family Practice Residency Program in Casper, served as Chief of Staff at Wyoming Medical Center, was president of the Natrona County Medical Society, was selected as an outstanding family physician in Wyoming, and was team physician to the Casper College men’s T-Bird basketball team.
In 1969, he met the love of his life, Cathy. They were married in 1970, beginning a partnership filled with devotion, laughter, and unwavering support for one another. Together they built a beautiful life centered around their church, family, friendships, and shared values.
Dr. Lou’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. He was invested as an Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate for his outstanding service to the Church. Additionally, he became a member of Leadership 100, where he chaired the Small Parishes Program designed to assist small, struggling parishes for growth. He served on the Executive Committee of the Archdiocesan Council of GOA. Furthermore, he was instrumental in the construction of the Metropolis Center of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Denver, and served as Vice Chairman of the Metropolis Council for 26 years. Throughout this time, he devotedly loved and supported Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Casper, where he served as treasurer, and was a member of the Parish Council for over 50 years.
His commitment to his church and community extended far beyond his medical practice. He helped establish the Central Wyoming Counseling Center and served as Board President for over 25 years, was president of the Blue Envelope Health Fund, and served on the Governor’s Committee on Drug Abuse. Additionally, he was a member of AHEPA, rising to the position of District Governor.
He was an avid tennis player; Thursday afternoons were often reserved for the tennis courts with his son and brother John. Having a lifelong love of the sport, he earned the number one ranking in the state for many years in both the over 35- and over-45 age divisions, later achieving national rankings in the over-50 division. He also found joy in hunting, fishing, bowling, collecting coins, and cheering on his beloved Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
Louis Roussalis was preceded in death by his parents, Coula J. and John E. Roussalis. He is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Cathy; son, John L. Roussalis, M.D. (Valerie); daughter, Angelique L. Roussalis; grandsons, Elias Roussalis and Teddy Roussalis; sister, Metta J. Martin; brother, John E. Roussalis II, D.D.S. (Darellene); and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
