2026 SESSION

ENROLLED

HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 295

Celebrating the life of Charles Arthur Krouse.

Agreed to by the House of Delegates, March 10, 2026

WHEREAS, Charles Arthur Krouse, a devoted husband, father, community leader, and lifelong volunteer, died on August 29, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service, generosity, and compassion that deeply enriched the Town of Vienna and the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, born to Arthur and Anna Krouse on October 26, 1928, in Chicago, Illinois, Charles “Chuck” Arthur Krouse grew up with strong values of perseverance and optimism that guided him throughout a long and productive life; and

WHEREAS, after earning a degree in journalism from the University of Iowa, Chuck Krouse distinguished himself as a reporter with United Press before being recruited to serve his country through the Central Intelligence Agency's Foreign Broadcast Information Service, where he served during pivotal moments in world history, including the Cuban Missile Crisis; and

WHEREAS, Chuck Krouse subsequently worked for the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association, then as staff to the United States House Committee on Public Works and Transportation, gaining daily insight into the legislative process while maintaining a steadfast commitment to family and community; and

WHEREAS, a longtime resident of Vienna, Chuck Krouse was deeply involved in civic life as a Little League baseball coach and Cub Scout leader, modeling integrity, kindness, and civic responsibility for his children and other young people in the community; and

WHEREAS, Chuck Krouse and his wife of 63 years, Mary Lou, were dedicated members of Wesley United Methodist Church in Vienna, where they volunteered on numerous committees and played an integral role in the life and success of the congregation; and

WHEREAS, in retirement, Chuck Krouse exemplified the spirit of servant leadership by volunteering with Offender Aid and Restoration in Fairfax County to support individuals during and after incarceration and by serving on the national board of Heifer International, advancing global efforts to strengthen rural communities and reduce hunger through sustainable agriculture; and

WHEREAS, even in his later years at The Virginian senior living community, Chuck Krouse remained actively engaged in community life, serving as president of the resident association and helping raise funds to support staff members through holiday bonuses; and

WHEREAS, remembered for his intellectual curiosity, deep faith, gentle humor, and unfailing consideration for others, Chuck Krouse lived a life defined not only by professional accomplishment, but also by a profound dedication to service, justice, and human dignity; and

WHEREAS, predeceased by his wife, Mary Lou, Chuck Krouse will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by his sons, Matthew, Timothy, and Peter, and their families and numerous other family members and friends; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Delegates hereby note with great sadness the loss of Charles Arthur Krouse, a highly admired community leader in Northern Virginia; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of Charles Arthur Krouse as an expression of the House of Delegates' respect for his memory.