Rose Mary Blackwell's Obituary
Rose Mary (Atkins) Blackwell passed away peacefully at home encircled by her family and under the care of hospice on April 3, 2022.
Rose was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan on August 5, 1947 to Monard and Eveline (Watson) Atkins.
Rose married Frank Blackwell on July 18, 1970 at the First United Methodist Church in Chelsea, Michigan.
Together, Rose and Frank moved to the Waterloo area in 1978 and welcomed their son Russell (Rusty) in March of 1980. When Rusty was young, Rose drove school buses for the Chelsea School District.
Rose was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1989 after already exhibiting symptoms for a couple of years. Also a breast-cancer survivor, Rose never let the diseases define her, and she continued to love tending her flower beds, reading, and spending time with her family and friends.
In December 2008, Rose and Frank welcomed their first grandchild, who was followed in quick succession by a second in December 2010. The new role of grandmother sparked joy and new energy in Rose. She was well suited to the task and enjoyed doing crafts, baking, and going on many adventures with her beloved granddaughters.
Rose is survived by her loving husband Frank. She is also survived by her son Rusty (Jennifer) of Manchester, Michigan and granddaughters Riley and Josephine. Rose will live on in the hearts of extended family and loved ones. She was predeceased by her parents and her brother Billie.
Please join Rose's family in a celebration of her life to be held at the Waterloo Village United Methodist Church on April 30, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. Visitation with the family will proceed an hour before, and a luncheon will follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Waterloo Village United Methodist Church.
Rose was the embodiment of strength and kindness.
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