Rosalie CONNORS

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CONNORS: It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of our wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Rosalie Pauline Connors (nee: Cotton), on the morning of July 30, 2009. Born on March 14, 1938 in Digby, Nova Scotia, Rosalie was the eldest daughter of Lewis and Winnifred Cotton. She leaves to mourn: her husband and love of her life for 51 years Daniel, and children Danny (Janice), Sheldon (Lori) and Pamela (Terry Gramiak). Rosalie’s memory will also live on in the hearts of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Leslie, Kirsten, Mary-Mackenzie, Lane, Jordan, and Nicolas; and sisters Sheri, Elizabeth, Gail, and brother Eric. Rosalie graduated high school and business school in Trenton, N.S. She found employment as an administrative professional and telegrapher for CN Telegraph, the Edmonton Journal and Department of National Defense Gagetown, N.B. On November 9, 1957, after a short courtship and engagement, Rosalie married the light of her life, Daniel Joseph Connors. Son Dan arrived the following year, with son Sheldon a year later. When Dan Sr., was assigned a tour of duty in Germany, Rosalie and the boys wasted no time on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity; quick to learn the language and embrace the culture, Rosalie led Dan and the boys on many adventures throughout Europe. After returning to Canada, daughter Pamela arrived in 1969 and brought much activity to family life. After Pam started school, Rosalie accepted a position in the typing pool at C.F.B. Shilo, where her tireless efforts and sincere dedication to job and country earned her a steady rise to secretary to the Base Administrative Officer, a position she held until her retirement in 1995. Her commitment to the jobs she held and the people she worked with, and for, was recognized with many awards and commendations, including the Canada 125 and the Work Achievement Award from Military Headquarters. While she got great satisfaction from her professional life and was humbled by the recognition, Rosalie considered her marriage and children her greatest accomplishments. She was a devoted and loving wife and mother who was happiest when surrounded by her family at home. Rosalie enjoyed travelling and treasured the time she spent holidaying with Dan, most recently in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Her days on the golf course allowed her to spend quality time with friends and family. Rosalie was a dedicated member of St. Matthew’s Cathedral. She was also active in her community, volunteering with many organizations. She had a tender heart, a deep spirit, compassionate hands and a creative, willful mind. Her caring nature extended beyond her family to her many friends. A celebration of Rosalie’s life was held at St. Mathew’s Cathedral on August 4, 2009. Urn Bearer was Pamela Gramiak (daughter). Honourary Bearers were: Ursula Noseworthy, Gloria Sexsmith, Hazel Turner, Cathy House, Janice Connors, Shelley Swartz. My mom is a never-ending song in my heart ofcomfort, happiness, and being. I may sometimes forget the words but I always remember the tune.  ~Graycie Harmon

As published in Brandon Sun on Aug 08, 2009