Rose Marie Foster

Feb. 23, 1928 - Nov. 20, 2011

SOUTH BEND - Rose Marie Foster entered into Heaven on Sunday, November 20, 2011. She passed away peacefully with family at her side. She was born Rose Marie Bringe on February 23, 1928, to Otto and Rose (Meyer) Bringe in Melrose, MN. She had ten brothers and sisters. She married Richard Thomas Foster (who preceded her in death in 2003) in Harvey, IL, on October 2, 1954. They had seven children, John (Kathy) Foster, Todd (Lisa) Foster, Paula (Bob) Giver, Tamara (Tom) Golubski, Bruce (Sandy) Foster, Amy (Mike) Weiss and Mary (Nigel) Cornwall. She had been a resident of South Bend since 1959. Her son, John, and daughter-in-law, Sandy, also preceded her in death. Rose loved to fish, take trips, and was an avid card player. Her favorite trip was a pilgrimage to Medjugorje. Her favorite fish was the last one she caught. She enjoyed music and playing the organ. She was well-known for her amazing rose garden. She always had a cheerful disposition and a lovely sense of humor. She had beautiful eyes. Known as "Grandma Rosie" to 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild, Rose was always eager to play a board game or a game of Cribbage. She and her grandchildren spent countless happy hours together. Rose was tireless in raising funds for special causes. She raised thousands of dollars for Hospice, American Cancer Society, and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. For many years she served as an officer in the Woodmen of the World Lodge 6001. She had a heart for charities, particularly those involving needy children. She supported Running Strong for American Indian Youth. She sponsored children in Africa for many years and collected change daily for Holy Cross Missions of Africa. Rose was a strong role model to her children and grandchildren. She taught by example. She taught her children to help others, to forgive, to love learning, to make a lot out of a little, to laugh often, and to love as Jesus loved. Rose's energetic personality, quick wit, and fun-loving spirit will be deeply missed by her family and many friends. Most important to Rose, Jesus was the center of her life. She was a faithful servant to Jesus and an active member of Little Flower Catholic Church. She volunteered in many capacities at the church. She led the prayer tree ministry, helped with many meal functions, and assisted in the church office. She attended Bible study, participated in the crochet club, and took many continuing education classes there. She found much joy in attending daily Mass where she led the congregation in song. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 25, from 4:00 to 7:30 at Little Flower Catholic Church on 54191 Ironwood Road. A Rosary will be said at 7:30 followed immediately by the Divine Mercy Chaplet. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, November 26, at 10:30, also at Little Flower Catholic Church. Officiating will be her dear friend, Rev. Cornelius J. Ryan, C.S.C. By her request, any donations made in her memory should be to Holy Cross Missions in East Africa, P.O. Box 543, Notre Dame, IN 46556. To send online condolences, please visit www.kaniewski.com.
Published in South Bend Tribune on November 23, 2011