May 25, 1975– August 26, 2026
There are no words to describe Boot, but some have said folk hero, legend, song writer, entertainer and musician.
Justin Boot Rousseau, known as Boot, was born on May 25,1975 to Suzan Rinner and Steve Rousseau in Kansas City. He was born with a heart condition and was not expected to live beyond age 30. In 2006 Boot began a journey that many said was impossible, and that journey became the iconic Trapper Creek Blue Grass Festival. For 20 years TCBG has showcased Alaska musicians and artists and holds a fond place in the hearts of festival goers and volunteers.
Justin was an accomplished surveyor with 25 years in the field. He was a proud member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. He was a collector of old things, especially cars and trucks and, by necessity, he became a decent mechanic.
Boot believed in music, in gathering people together and he believed in his community. Most importantly, he possessed a rare ability to look at something nearly impossible and say, 'I can do that.' He saw talents in people that they did not see in themselves and encouraged them to follow their dreams. His open mic sessions at the Taproot gave musicians the platform to fly.
Boot's proudest accomplishment is his son Nikona (wife Rachel) who is attending University of Wisconsin Nuclear Engineering PhD program. Boot is also survived by his mother, Mamma Sue, his brother Joe Rousseau, sisters Rhonda Ledford and Christy Morgan as well as nieces and nephews.
Celebrations of his life will be held September 11 and 12.
Janssen’s Mat-Su Funeral Home of Anchorage, AK is in charge of arrangements.