Our precious Mother Rose, age 75, passed away on Saturday January 22, 2022, after her battle with cancer. Some might say Rose lost her battle to cancer however she didn’t lose the battle because she never stopped fighting. No matter how sick she was, she never quit and was determined not to give up hope. When anyone else would have broken, she stayed strong. Through her, we know what perseverance and resilience really look like. She is truly our hero!
Rose was born December 19, 1946 to the parents of Alice Cooney and Thomas James Farrell in Manhattan, New York. Rose’s parents were born in Ireland and immigrated to the US before she was born. Rose grew up in New York and worked for Flushing Hospital and the Telephone company where she was a supervisor. She later moved to Canada where she built a life for herself and her two children. She worked hard all her life to support her family and was a long- standing employee of Nalley’s Canada.
Rose was a dedicated mother first and foremost and devoted her life to her children and grandchildren. She treasured her family and embraced every moment with them. She was always the family’s biggest supporter and cheerleader and never missed a milestone or important event. She especially loved her role as grandma or “Thug” grandma, nicknamed by her grandchildren. She got the nickname because of her strength and fearless personality. She didn’t fear anyone or anything and she would tell you exactly what was on her mind. Although she was bold, she had the heart as big as the ocean and was always there to lend a helping hand. She was always there to help a friend or family member in need no matter what the situation was.
Rose led a good life and was surrounded by many friends and family who adored her. She made friends everywhere she went. There was never a dull moment around Rose as she had a vivacious personality and always knew how to make people laugh. There are so many stories that could be told about her that would have you in stitches laughing. Rose did tell her family, no tears for me, only laughter and funny Rose stories. She wanted to be remembered as the fun mom and cool grandma who loved chocolate, Coke and AC/DC!
She was ready to meet her “Maker”, but we weren’t sure if the “Maker” was ready to meet her.
Good luck God!
Rose is survived by her two children Thomas Howard (Alison), Theresa Forgach (Steve), grandchildren Brendan, Ryan and Rachael Forgach as well as two furry grandchildren Freddie and Mister.
The family will have a celebration of life for Rose with the date to be determined.
February 28th, 2022
Rosy.
You always loved when I called you that.
I just want to thank you for making my world better by being in it.
You were my fellow firey red head, with no bum! Lol
You weren't a friend, you were my family.
Love you, rosy.
Rest in peace. ❤❤
February 25th, 2022
We will always remember the amazing Mother Rose was to all of us. Her sense of humour and kind heart made us always feel welcome and part of her family. Rose’s ability to tell a story was unlike any other. She could make us laugh til we cried. We are so happy that we got to celebrate her 75th Birthday with her, Thomas and Theresa. She will truly be missed, but our fond memories and “Rose stories” will keep her spirit alive for many many years to come. “Love you Rosie.”
Alvin, Tanya, Taylor and Cole Heal-Hathaway
February 21st, 2022
OMG - Where do I start?? Well we met in 1979 when I started work at Nalley's. We were both on the Production line at the Chip Plant on Annacis Island, and hit it off right away. I lived in Queensborough at the time and would walk to work. She lived in Burnaby near Edmonds and Kingsway. She would pick me up if she saw me walking. We both transferred to the Vancouver Plant in 1980 so we could get more hours -- again.....on the production line. I was going through some hard times and needed a place to stay. She immediately invited me to come and stay at her place. I stayed in Thomas's room and shared his bunk bed - (I got the bottom, and he got the top). lol. After a few months I got back on my feet and found an apartment.
We met some amazing people at Nalley's many of whom we kept in contact all these years. Lorraine Kosterman being one of them. In the early '90's the 3 of us went on an awesome trip to New York. We stayed in Manhattan across the street from Madison Square Gardens. We walked all over and played "the tourist". Rose's brother Pat was our official Chauffeur and took us to their childhood "hood". lol. We saw a Mets game at Shea Stadium. We had tickets to see a Yankees game at the "old" Yankee Stadium, but it was rained out, and we were leaving the next day. Damn it!!!!! We had such a great time.....memories for the rest of our lives for sure.
Rose was my rock when my Mom passed away in 1998. We cried together, hugged each other often. We went Tofino together for a weekend. We drove around and I showed her all my "childhood memory" places. Rose helped me choose a plot for her at the Tofino Cemetery. I was so thankful for her company to do that. When we got home, she helped me pick out Mom's headstone at a Surrey Funeral Home - again, I was thankful for her shoulder to lean on.
We went to School together to learn how to use a Computer. Since EI was paying for it we decided to get some new skills after Nalley's. We ended up getting jobs at separate locations, but still kept in touch, and stayed close. We got together often for dinner, drinks and chats....another very memorable time for sure.
During her Transplant time and appointments during the years following, we had many heart to heart talks. She was very grateful to her Medical Team for all they did. Sometimes she would complain about all the Appointments, LOL, but was always appreciative.
I still can't believe she is gone - every Friday, we would text each other wishing "Happy Friday" - (I called her Missy Rose, and she called me Lara Lye). I still say it every Friday, and always will.
She loved her family and friends with all her heart. I will never forget her -- Ever. I love you Rose.....xoxo
February 19th, 2022
Rose taught me how to dance and skate, which we did for hours as children. She encouraged me to excel in roller skating . Rose was my strength and courage to do well, she knew I was a shy guy in my early years as a child. ❤️❤️☘️☘️🌈🌈🇺🇸🇺🇸 and a true🇨🇦🇨🇦.🇺🇸🇺🇸. God bless you, Rose. I miss you every day, especially the many laughs we had over the years. You were blessed with Theresa and Thomas and the three grandchildren Brendan, Ryan and Rachael. Love you, Patrick
February 19th, 2022
Everything that Teresa has written is absolutely true.
I was honored to have known her for 75 years, first as her neighbor in Elmhurst, NY and then later as reconnected friends on Facebook. We had many long chats on the phone after we reconnected and those talks make me smile even now.
She was a delightful, positive one of a kind and is sorely missed. Safe travels, Rosie, hope to see you again on the other side.
With heartfelt sympathy to all her loved ones,
Jim
February 18th, 2022
Hello Beautiful Rose, I know you can hear us.
Protective, Fierce, and One of a kind Lady. Thank you for adopting me as one of your own as a scrawny kid in Middlegate. Knowing I had a door to run to if i needed help was something money couldn't buy and was treasured because we didn't have any. I admire your direct approach to life and fun loving nature. I feel a smile coming each time I think about you. You are missed greatly. 💕xo
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