Rose Mary Heath of McMechen passed away on February 11, 2016 under Hospice Care in Marietta, Georgia surrounded by loved ones. She was born on May 11, 1928, the daughter of the late Mary and Peter Kurelac. She is preceded in death by her sisters Madeline (Rockaway), Julie (Schoeppner), Mary (Pabin), Ann (Cwynar) and niece Cindy (Cwynar Bittengle).
She is survived by her sons Peter Heath (Laurie) of Orlando, Fla, Michael Heath (Tami) of Woodstock, Ga and John Heath of Reston, Va., along with grandchildren Rhiannon, Austin and Taylor. Also surviving is her brother Peter Kurelac (Patty) of Glendale, WV and twin sister Katie Wolen of West Mifflin, Pa and many nieces and nephews.
She was a professional seamstress starting at the age of 16 at the Valley Garment Sewing Plant in McMechen, Bobbie Brooks Sewing Plant in Bellaire and retired from Krisport Inc, in Wheeling. After retirement Rose fulfilled a lifelong dream of completing her High School Education and earning her GED Diploma in Marshall County at the age of 80 in 2008. In doing this she made herself and her family very proud.
All during her productive years, Rose had a private sewing service. She sewed custom made garments which included detailed wedding gowns, men’s suits, dancing costumes, cheerleading outfits and many alterations for customers all over the Ohio Valley.
Rose took much pride in her hard work and providing for her three boys. She was admired and loved by many friends and family because of her animated personality and kindness to everyone she met.
Friends will be received on Friday, February 19, 2016 from 2:00 – 4:00 & 6:00 – 8:00pm with a Vigil service being held at 7:00pm and Saturday, February 20, 2016 from 10:00 – 10:45am at Altmeyer Funeral home, Benwood-McMechen Chapel, 214 Marshall Street, McMechen with Mass of Christian Burial being held Saturday, February 20, 2016 at 11am at St. James Catholic Church in McMechen, with Rev. Chester Pabin & Rev. Bekah Utietiang serving as celebrants.
In lieu of flowers, the family request memorial donations to be made to Bishop Donahue High School in McMechen, WV, c/o TMCFunding.com.
On-line condolences to the family may be expressed at www.altmeyer.com.
Turk, So sorry to hear of the passing of your Mom. She had a beautiful smile. Such a wonderful video tribute. She and your family will be in my prayers.
Turk….Our thoughts and prayers are with and your family. She was a wonderful lady. Lots of memories growing up. Ching Ching
Thinking of your family wishing you moments of peace and confirm as you all remember all the special times with Rose who was so close to your hearts. The Kraus family is keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers.
With deepest sympathy,
Love, Jerry,Stephanie &
Nicholas Kraus xoxo
I always loved speaking with Rose. She made all the dresses for my wedding among other things. I always enjoyed talking with her. I was speaking about Rose on Tuesday and came home and opened the newspaper to find her obituary. I was so sad. She will be a sweet soul forever….condolences to the family.
Pete, Turk & John, I am so sorry for your loss. Your mother was such a sweet lady. I think of her every time I drive by the house. There’s no doubt in my mind that she is at peace in the arms of Jesus. She’ll always be in our hearts. Such a great loss to our community. God bless, Monica
I knew Rose from staying at her house over the years when I’d visit McMechen with her son John. I have fond memories of her story telling and her fried potatoes for breakfast!
John, I have always heard lovely stories about your mom. I am sure the service will be a fitting tribute to a life well lived. My prayers are with you.
Rose was a truly unique woman. I worked with her at Krisport for almost 10 years. She helped me learn a lot and also helped me on my wedding dress. She always worked so very hard and had much pride in her work. The heavens have gained another angel. Prayers to her family.
This is a sad day in McMechen, Rosie will surely be missed. She was one of the most wonderful people I ever met. She was my first landlady when I was 18 years old, she took me under her wing and I never forgot it. We spent many evenings in her sewing room visiting. She was always proud of her three boys. Always a smile on her face and such a pleasant person to have as a friend. I will always feel Blessed for knowing such a good person. I am so sorry for your loss boys !
What a wonderful life of service, and dedication to family, hard work, and helping others. A beautiful story about getting her GED. What a great spirit. My condolences on your loss, and prayers of support go out to you all.