DeRousse, Bret S. passed away in his home August 25, 2026 with his wife, Roberta by his side. Born in St. Louis to Alfred and Maryann DeRousse. Bret lived in many states, but attended high school and college in St. Louis.
He was a dear brother, brother-in-law, uncle and cousin. Bret was a bonus dad to David (Karen), Stephanie (Tim), Jess, Sami (Danile), and Marnie (Mark Sr.). Grandfather of seven and great Paw Paw to seven beautiful girls.
He retired from McGrath Construction where he was Vice President of Energy Infrastructure. Relaxing, fishing, and golf was spent at Innsbrook. Bret was a big sports fan of the Ram’s, which he traveled out of town to see with his Hill guys. Even when games where in town he tail gaited. He had fun at Cardinals and Blues games. He and learned from Tony Catarinicchia how to make Cognac cream sauce. Next love started with playing Bocce at Milo’s and then to the Melrose Club. He later joined the Italia-America Bocce Club in February but his health stopped him from ever returning due to his cancer diagnosis that came in 2019 which had spread to his brain, and he could no longer speak. A very long and hard battle was fought.
Traveling was special, to diving the great barrier reef in Australia with Dave, to New Orleans, London and Hawaii with his wife and Isaac Bruce in attendance for a big game party prior to games along with cheerleaders. To celebrate yearly wedding anniversary in Cabo San Lucas, since 1999.
He had many talents to speaking in different dialects, playing harmonica, bowling, Bocce with his wife every week, drawing and finally woodworking and glass blowing he learned from Vince Dombeck.
Bret had been and alderman in Ballwin, HBA, and the American Legion Post 15. Proudly served in the US Army, Marksman M16 Sharp Shooter.
Visitation at Michel Funeral Home 5930 Southwest Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63139 September 10, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. with funeral services beginning at 12:00 p.m. Final resting place will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery at 1:30 p.m.
In lieu of flowers please donate to Brain Cancer Research or ALS Research in for our friend Rich LoRusso.
ARRANGEMENTS UNDER THE DIRECTION OF MICHEL FUNERAL HOME
I had the pleasure of knowing Bret from work at McGrath and Associates. While I didn’t know him well he appeared to have a flawless character. My condolences go out to his family and friends. God bless Bret.
Berta
My deepest sympathy to your family. May Bret RIP and prayers for you.
RIP Bret you will be missed.i will never forget the picture of Mike you had made for me. It me me smile on that sad day, it is very special to me. Breta you are in my heart and prayers. Love you and here if you need me.
So long old friend. Memories of playing softball on the Volk construction ball team, partying, and bar hopping pop up all the time. Rest in peace.
I had the opportunity to work closely with Bret on most of the Ameren and Energy projects at McGrath.
We not only learned to work well together and respected each other I was honored to call him my Friend.
My heart goes out to all of his Family and I pray he is resting in peace now.