Maria Rose
May 29, 1930 - August 18, 2024
Obituary
Maria Rose (affectionately known as Mitzie) was born May 29, 1930 in Untertannowitz, Czechoslovakia. After a long and rich life, she passed away peacefully at Merrill Gardens in Renton, Washington, where she had lived for nearly seven years. Maria’s journey through life was marked by resilience, love for her family, and dedication to her craft.
Mitzie lost her mother during childbirth. She was raised by her widowed father, with the help of her aunt and older sister, Aima. Growing up in a family vineyard, Mitzie was deeply influenced by her sister, who not only helped their father in the vineyard, but also took on the role of homemaker and substitute mother preparing meals for the family. It was from Aima that Mitzie learned the art of sewing, a skill that would become a lifelong passion.
Following World War II, Mitzie fled the Russian invasion and found refuge in Vienna, Austria. There, she continued to follow in her sister’s footsteps, studying dressmaking at a specialized school. Mitzie excelled in her studies, completing her schooling and training with excellent results on July 1, 1950.
Mitzie’s life took her across continents. After the birth of her daughter, Ruth, in Vienna on November 20, 1956, she and Ruth’s father Kurt Josef Matheisl divorced. Mitzie first moved to Canada with Anna and then to the United States. Her close friend, Irmgard lived close for many years and her friend Gretl enjoyed visits from Mitzie and Anna in her home in Canada. On April 4, 1969, Mitzie became a U. S. citizen.
Tragedy struck when Ruth, who had pursued a legal education at Southwestern Law School in Los Angeles, died in a car accident on September 26, 1987, shortly before taking the bar exam. Mitzie was deeply proud of her daughter and was heartbroken by this loss. Supported by friends and family, and her husband George, Mitzie navigated this difficult time with silent pain and grace.
In 1990, Mitzie and George divorced. Mitzie continued to live in Washington, first in her home and then in several assisted living facilities. During this time, she maintained close relationships with friends and family. Over the years, Mitzie and Anna were known for their warmth and hospitality. Anna died on October 28, 2021. Her son, John Jesch, predeceased Mitzie by a few months this year.
Mitzie will be remembered as a private but loving woman who left a lasting impact on all who knew her.
Grave Side Services will be held at
Bonney Watson Funeral Home & Washington Memorial Park
Sunday, September 22, 2024, at 11:00 AM
Memorial donations may be made in Mitzie’s name to your favorite charity.