Rose Sanford

Rose Miriam Sanford, 87, of Burien and Gig Harbor, passed away peacefully on May 17th, surrounded by her loving family.

Rose was born in Irvington, New Jersey. She met her future husband Walter, a native of Seattle, in Florida during World War II. They were married in New Jersey, and Rose moved to Seattle as a new bride in 1946. They raised three daughters and were happily married for over 50 years until Walts death in 1997.

Rose loved time with her family. She was always involved with her kids, and spent several years as a room mother as the girls progressed through the grades at Gregory Heights Elementary School. She was also a brownie leader. Later, she served on the board of Jobs Daughters for Bethel 40 in Burien, and was instrumental in establishing a new bethel in Des Moines. She and Walt were also among the original members of the Gregory Heights swim club, where the girls were on the swim team.

Rose also enjoyed entertaining friends, playing bridge, and traveling. She was also an avid gardener, and loved keeping her yard in bloom all year long. Her landscaping was admired by many, and was featured in the Highline Times.

Rose was predeceased by her husband Walter and her brothers Alfred and Edward Robinson. She is survived by her daughters Nancy (David) Bushi of Falls Church, VA; Barbara (Patrick) Fischer of Portland, Oregon; Linda (Tom) Peterson of Corvallis, Oregon; five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Roses honor may be made to the Franciscan Hospice House; 2901 Bridgeport Way W; University Place, Washington; 98466.

A memorial service for family and friends will be held on Sunday, August 24th, from 2pm to 4pm. They will meet at North Hill Community Club, 20827 - 3rd Ave South, DesMoines, WA 98198.