Russell J. Rose, 102, of Needham, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on June 29, 2019.
Russell was born October 4, 1916 in Wellesley, MA, the 4th son of the late Reginald W of S. Africa and Mary V (Colton) Rose of Ireland. Preceded in death by his siblings Reggie, John, Doug, Mary Willis and Henry. He served in WWII as an Army Field Artillery Instructor- stationed at Fort Bragg, NC. He enjoyed traveling and visiting family around the country/world. He loved golf and always spending time with family. He was a devoted son and brother.
Russell was one of the founding parishioners of St. Joseph's Parish School. He was very active in the community of St Joseph's Parish and the school. He was a Daily Communicant, Parish Council Member, a Catechist, Lector, Usher and lead the Monday Night Novena (which is still alive and well today) for years. Russell was a devoted and long time member of Needham Knights of Columbus Fr. Daniel J. Kennedy Council 1611, also a Member of the American Legion. Dedicated to the Pro-Life movement-in prayer and action. His faith was the cornerstone of his life. Russell was a successful entrepreneur of the Business Service Company-'retiring' at the age of 85 years old.
Russell is preceded in death by his beloved wife Eileen M. (Dorry) Rose of 67 years, his precious daughter Kathleen M. (Rose) Fabis and sweet grandchild Veronica M. Rose. He is survived by his 8 children: Mary Eileen of Needham, MA; Russell J. Jr. and his wife Endya, of Sarasota, Fl; Michael G. and his wife Jacqueline T. of Medfield, MA; Robert P. and Janis L of W. Poland, ME; Son-in-Law Philip M. Fabis of Medfield, MA; Brian J. of Needham, MA; Timothy P. and his wife Jane A. of Natick, MA; Suzanne M. (Rose) Lowry and her husband Bryan P. of Richmond, VA; and Christine M. (Rose) Schmidt and her husband Paul A. of Bristol, RI. Russell is survived by 21 grandchildren; Erik, Kevin, Patrick, Michael, Alexandra, Bridget, Timothy, Christopher, Joseph, Victoria, Shannon, Emily, Mark, Lukas, Cecilia, Gabrielle, Anna, Eileen, Bernadette, Michaela and John. Russell was also blessed with 3 Great grandchildren- Benjamin, James and Kolbe.
A Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday July 8, 2019 at 10:00AM at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Needham. Visiting hours will be on Sunday, July 7, 2019 from 2:00PM to 6:00PM at George F. Doherty & Sons, 1305 Highland Ave., Needham. Relatives and friends kindly invited. Interment will be at St. Mary's Cemetery, Needham.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Russell’s memory to St Joseph’s Elementary School or The Needham Knights of Columbus, Fr. Daniel J. Kennedy Council 1611.