Gretchen Rose
October 06, 1933 — January 28, 2025
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Service Details
Gretchen Rose, age 91, passed away Tuesday, January 28, 2025.
Gretchen was born on October 6, 1933, in Des Moines, Iowa, to George Kenneth Taylor and Ruth Ann (Davis) Taylor. She was one of five children in the family and grew up surrounded by the love and support of her siblings.
She was a proud graduate of East High School, Class of 1951. She went on to pursue her passion for helping others, graduating from nursing school in 1954. In September of that same year, she married the love of her life, Walter Thomas Rose, and together they shared many years of happiness.
For approximately 35 years, Gretchen dedicated herself to the nursing profession, providing compassionate care to those in need. Outside of her career, she enjoyed simple pleasures—playing cards, solving jigsaw puzzles, spending time with her beloved dogs, reading, and engaging in lively conversations with her neighbors. She was also a devoted fan of college football and basketball, always looking forward to the next game.
She is survived by her children, John Rose and Stephanie Rose; brother, Robert “Bob” Davis Taylor; niece, Traci Nelson; grandchildren, Eric Ekstrom Blakley and Miles Taylor Blakley; great-grandchildren, Killian Scott Blakley and Charlotte Blakley; and numerous other loving friends and family members.
Gretchen was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Walter Rose; and 3 siblings.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 6th, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., with a service at 11:00 a.m. at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines, Iowa. A private family burial will be held at Glendale Masonic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa in loving memory of Gretchen.
Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Luann Rowat
02/03/2025
I absolutely loved it when Gretchen came in to the East Side Library for new books! Blessed to have known her in the interests of reading the same books. When I was at the front desk, she would always say "what's new with your family" before checking out. I also loved the way she always would "tell it like it is"!
Andrew Bush
02/02/2025
I had the wonderful privilege of having Gretchen as a neighbor for my entire childhood. My brothers and I would wander across the street often to visit with her, we loved being greeted by her dog, Rags. She was always such a kind and warm neighbor. My condolences to the family, she will be missed!
Larry Rogers
02/02/2025
John and Stephanie,
Sorry to hear about the passing of your mom. It's always tough to lose a loved one. You guys were always such good neighbors to us on Colfax Avenue. May God be with you during this difficult time.
Larry Rogers
Gayle Fleege Johnson
02/02/2025
To John and Stephanie, my parents, Don and Edie Fleege, were dear friends of your parents. Our Dads both work for Western Electric. Your Mother was very supportive when my Mother was ill and also with my Dad until his passing. I will remember your mother fondly. Blessings, Gayle.