Rose Zatorski

On April 15, 2021, Rose Zatorski passed away peacefully surrounded by love from family and friends.

Rose was born on February 11th, 1944 and raised in the Athabasca area as the youngest of eight. Being surrounded by many nieces and nephews, her love of children was apparent early on. She received her teaching degree from the University of Alberta and taught elementary at Princeton School in Edmonton when she graduated.

After her marriage to Orest, they settled in the Grassland area and she embraced the role of farm wife and mom. Rose was the proud mother of 6 children: Sandra, Jennifer, Glenn, Colleen, Kevin and Nathan whom she devoted her life to. Her sense of fun was the cause of many family adventures that are still reminisced about at every opportunity. Over the years, her family continued to grow with the addition of spouses/partners, eight grandchildren and a great grandson who are all reflections of this vibrant lady.

Rose shared her enthusiasm for learning with her family. She took pride in caring for the assortment of animals on the family farm and her huge, beautiful gardens. Every berry picking, mushroom hunting, or fishing trip guaranteed that along with the hard work would be an opportunity to explore, experience, and appreciate the gifts around us. There always seemed to be time to climb a tree, build lean-to or take a dip in the lake. Rose was an amazing cook. Some of her happiest times were picnics in the field or when neighbors came in for lunch after helping with cattle. The platters she gave them to eat from would always be overflowing and there was always a spot at the table for anyone who happened to be there when food was ready.

Rose had a creative energy about her. This was evident in her many elaborate sewing projects. Once becoming involved with Ukrainian dance, she dreamed up floats for local parades and was resourceful in helping construct them. She loved to design and sew award winning dance costumes. Often you would hear music blasting from the house, and costumes would be held up and danced in the air as she finished them. She loved writing, drawing, and creating beautiful things. Her energy was very contagious, and it inspired others to create as well. Rose’s heart was open to the world and she loved listening to music. She would choose songs that expressed her feelings and would often be found tapping her toes along to the lively ones.

Travelling with her family brought Rose much joy. Many memories were made on quad and camping trips. The mountains were a special place for her and she enjoyed soaking in the hot springs. Rose loved her flowers, so any trip often required stopping to enjoy the beauty of the gardens. She loved travelling with her children and you couldn’t help but share in the wonder through her eyes.

Rose cared deeply for her family and friends; we were very lucky to have had her in our lives. Her family invites friends wishing to pay their respects to the viewing from 6-8pm on Thursday, April 22, 2021 at the Athabasca Funeral Chapel. A private service will be held Friday and then Rose will be laid to rest at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Roman Catholic Church Cemetery, Prosperity, AB. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Stars Air Ambulance, 1441 Aviation Park NE, Box 570, Calgary, AB T2E 9Z9.

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