Rose Marie Spencer

Rose Marie Spencer, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted teacher, passed away peacefully on September 3, 2024, in Melbourne, Florida, at the age of 92. Born on July 25, 1932, in Saginaw, Michigan, Rose was the cherished daughter of Francis and Anthony Nowaczyk. Raised in a home filled with a love for learning and the great outdoors, her father, an outdoorsman and plumber, taught Rose how to fish, a passion that would stay with her throughout her life. 

Rose loved learning and was an avid reader. She graduated valedictorian from high school at the age of 16. She later pursued a Bachelor's Degree in Education, all while balancing the joys and responsibilities of raising her four children. Rose touched countless young lives during her many years of teaching 5th grade at Holy Redeemer Catholic School, where she was also a dedicated parishioner. 

For 78 years Rose spent time fishing on the Au Sable River and visiting the family cabin built by her father in Northern Michigan, a place which she had many cherished memories. 

She was preceded in death by husband, Gordon, and her son, Glenn. Rose will be deeply missed by her daughters, Susan (Richard) Wassmuth and Sandra LaCroix; her son, Greg (Beth) Spencer; grandchildren, Michael (Kelsey) LaCroix, Sarah (Ben) Wollett, Jacob LaCroix, Nathan Wassmuth, and Gabriella Spencer; great-grandchildren, Savannah and Callahan; and many nieces and nephews. 

A funeral Mass celebrating Rose’s life will be held on Friday, September 27, 2024, at 11:30 AM at Saint George Catholic Church, South Patrick Chapel, located at 84 Harrier Ave, Satellite Beach, FL. Family, friends, and all whose lives Rose touched are invited to honor her memory and legacy. Tributes may be shared at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com.