Erna Rose

Born in Augsburg, Germany on January 30, 1925 to Georg and Ella Uhl, Erna Rose passed away on December 1, 2014 at the age of 89. She was preceded in the passing from this life by her husband of 49 years, Bill T. Rose, on April 7, 2008. She is survived by her son, George Peter Rose, his wife, Leslie, and her grand-son, Andrew Rose.

Living through the hardships of the German Depression of 1929-1933, and then the 2nd World War in Germany, gave her a special appreciation for life and its many joys, while also filling her with a special empathy for others, particularly those less fortunate, and the many animals who found their way to her door.

She was married to Billy T. Rose on February 19, 1959, returning with him to the U.S. that year, together with her son, Peter. Erna and her husband eventually moved to fox Island, Washington in 1996, after discovering that they would soon be grandparents. After the birth of Andrew Rose in April, 1996, Erna and Billy became a daily part of his formative life.

Ernas family, as well as those who knew her, remembers her especially for her exuberant zest for life. She was rarely happier than when hiking between heaven and earth on mountain trails above Paradise on Mt Rainier, or on Chinook Pass, surrounded by teeming wild flowers. Living life fully was for her an act of spiritual worship and gratitude to her God, who was a central part of her life.

She was proud of her son, Peter, and his wife, Leslie and especially her cherished grand-son, Andrew, but the truth is that it was we, her family, whose lives were enriched and blessed to have her in our midst. We feel so fortunate to have been able to love her, and to have been able to share the gift of life together with no regrets. Erna Rose ended her life here on earth peacefully in her sons arms, as he began his in hers. But she will be in our hearts and a part of us always.

All family, friends, and acquaintances are invited to the service to celebrate her life, which will be held at Haven of Rest, in Gig Harbor, WA on December 14, 2014 at 11:00am.

In keeping with her open heart to those less fortunate, and the many animals whom she adopted during her life, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Tacoma Rescue Mission and Kitsap Humane Society.