Robert F. Rose's Obituary
Robert F. Rose, 95, of Gainesville, FL passed away on November 8, 2024, following a brief illness. Bob was born October 18, 1929, in Scranton, PA to Albert Henry and Ida Koelsch Rose and was the youngest of three children.
Bob was preceded in death by his wife of 51 years, Marguerite (“Miki”) E. Ross Rose (1931-2010).
He is survived by their two children, Christine Rose (Mike) Sanders of Melrose and Leah Rose Griswold of Eustis; grandchildren: Joseph Michael Sanders (Carrie), Jacob Robert Sanders, Blake Thomas Griswold II, Henry Garrett Griswold “Garrett” (Lauren) and Brent Robert Griswold (Vandie); great grandson, Stetson Michael Sanders.
Bob was educated in Scranton, PA and graduated from St. Mary’s High School. Upon graduation he enlisted in the United States Coast Guard and served 1948-1951 San Diego and 1951-1953 USCG State Department “Voice of America” assignment broadcasting propaganda speeches behind the “Iron Curtain” of Russia and N. Korea on USCGC Courier. After completion of his service in USCG he attended San Diego State College (1953-1954) He graduated from Penn State University (1955-57) with a BS in Business Administration. During 1958-1972, Bob completed the Sears & Roebuck- Management Training Program. He then moved to Miami, FL. to join Parke-Davis Pharmaceutical Co. Covering Major Medical Conventions Miami Beach. While in N. Miami, Bob met the love of his life dining at a local restaurant, Marguerite “Miki” Ross. They were married on Sept. 2,1959 and lived in Hollywood where they started their family, welcoming their two daughters. A loving husband and father, they lived in Hollywood until 1972. Bob then transferred to Gainesville, FL. with Parke-Davis, covering the University of Florida and medical professionals in the N. FL. area. Pfizer purchased Parke -Davis and Bob worked there until 1990, retiring with 33 years in medical sales and marketing. From 1992 onward, Bob & Miki participated in many activities of service to their community. Bob was a Volunteer for Gainesville Catholic Charities, serving as Program Chair & Master of ceremonies for fund raising dinners, Chair of Finance Committee, Board Member-Bishop’s/Diocese of St. Augustine Jacksonville, Member Finance Committee of Diocese of St. Augustine. He served as a member of the building committee for Holy Faith Church & Queen of Peace Church/School. Bob was extremely honored to serve as a Eucharistic Minister at both churches.
Bob never met a stranger and always put others at ease in his presence. Bob & Miki loved to travel the world and as one of their greatest passions and when one trip ended …he was already planning the next one! He continued to travel with friends and family throughout his lifetime. He loved to read, play cards, all the arts especially music, sports and fellowship with so many friends and family. He was a faithful Christian and long-time active member of Queen of Peace Catholic Church. All who knew and loved him will miss his presence in their lives.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, November 21, 2024, at 10:00AM at Queen of Peace Catholic Church 10900 SW 24th Ave. with Fr. Al Esposito as celebrant. Military Honors and reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation in Bob’s honor to Catholic Charities Gainesville, 1701 NE 9th Street, Gainesville, FL 32609 or www.catholiccharitiesgainesville.org
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