Rosetta "Rose" Gehrke

Rosetta "Rose" Gehrke passed away on January 2, 2023 at Swedish American Hospital in Rockford after a short illness. She was born on May 6, 1946 in Chicago, IL to Mary Spurlin. She was raised in Camp Douglas, WI, but spent the majority of her life living in Antioch, IL. In 2021 she moved to Belvidere, IL. 
On October 13, 1978 she married Harold "Buzz" Gehrke having met only two weeks before. She was an avid football fan who never missed a chance to watch a game regardless who was playing, but loved the Chicago Bears. She enjoyed playing slot machines, shopping, playing games with friends or on her iPad, and of course spending time with family and friends.
She is survived by her daughter Cindy (John) Bartelt, her son Scott (Anairis) Gehrke, her grandchildren Bianca and Diego Ortiz-Matias, her in-laws Dar and Ray Jessen, Donna and Kim Kirchoff, and Gary and Roberta Kirchoff, many dear nieces and nephews, amazing caregiver Patti, her beloved cat Charlie, many grand kitties, and her wonderful friends at Shadley Apartments. 
Rose was preceded by her mother, Mary; her husband of 42 year, Harold; two sisters, Elizabeth and Magdalene; brothers-in-law Wayne and Randy; grand dog, Bentley; and her loyal dog and best friend, Rocky. 
A special thank you to the doctors, nursing staff, and respiratory staff at Swedish American for everything they did. 
To honor her memory please consider making a donation in her name to your local no-kill animal shelter or St. Jude's Children's Hospital. 

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