Rose passed away peacefully at Joseph Brant Hospital on April 6, 2019. Much loved mother of Mark (Liza) and Peggy (Daniel). Adored Nonna of Marc (Laura), Matt (Sammy), Maggie (Alex), Mike (Christina), Rebecca and Jake (Mary) and GG of Theo, Lewis and Lincoln. Rose will be missed by brother-in-law Jerry (Dorothy) and her many nieces and nephews.

Born Rosa Mattiuzzo in Exeter, Pa. on February 13, 1926, Rose was the youngest of four sisters (Maria, Della, Yolanda and Giovanna) and one brother (Tony). Her first job brought her to New Jersey where she met the love of her life, Ralph. They were married within the year. In 1950, they moved to Hamilton when Ralph was recruited to play for the Tiger Cats. Almost 70 years later, Rose still called Burlingon home, spending her last two years at the LaSalle Park Retirement Residence.

Rose was a legendary cook; family and friends never left the table hungry. Many an unsuspecting guest assumed that the lasagna was the dinner’s main course – oh, how wrong they were! Rose had an extraordinary group of long-time friends (Barb, Jan, June, Florence, Nancy, Jo and many others). She led a very active life and enjoyed volunteering over the years with the Junior League, AGH, Big Sisters and Red Cross. In her “middle years”, Rose took up golf. While Ralph had his Grey Cup victories, the plaques commemorating Rose’s two holes in one were hung front and centre in the family home. When Ralph passed away in 2008, Rose continued to live life to the fullest. As one friend put it: “She was a force to be reckoned with.” She loved playing bridge and continued to travel until her 90th year. And most importantly, she never willingly missed a Cats game, often joining in with an Oskee Wee Wee. Rose was a wonderful wife, mother, Nonna and GG.

Visitation is at BAY GARDENS FUNERAL HOME, 1010 Botanical Drive, Burlington on Friday, April 12 from 3-6 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Rosary Church, 287 Plains Rd East, Burlington on Saturday, April 13, 2019 at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Joseph Brant Memorial Hospital Foundation, or a charity of choice, would be appreciated.