The Free Press, Mankato, MN

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April 4, 2009

Rosemary Connors Doescher

Born Sept 22, 1921, in Sioux City, IA. Passed away on April 2, 2009 surrounded by her family and dear friends.

Preceded in death by parents Edward and Rose Connors, Lloyd Doescher, brother and sister-in-law Howard and Margaret Connors, and brother-in-law Clarence Hanson.

Survived by children Ann Shaw (Reid), Don (Gloria), John (Debbie), Jim (Kelly); grandchildren Caroline, Patrick (Kristi), Don Jr. (Denelle), Caitlin, Alec, Daniel, Erin, Linnea; great-grandchildren Michaela, Kiersten, Don III; and siblings Lois Hanson, Ed (Carolyn Roberts), and Margaret Ann Marley (Jerry).

Rosemary graduated from Jefferson, South Dakota, High School, class of 1938, where she loyally attended class reunions. She received a teaching certificate from South Dakota Southern Teachers College and at age 48 earned a Bachelors degree from Mankato State College, from which she also achieved a Masters in Education. Rosemary had a passion for education and always promoted a proficiency in mathematics. She began as a teacher in a one-room schoolhouse near Jefferson, South Dakota. She taught at Holy Rosary School in North Mankato, Wilson Campus School in Mankato, and was the Assistant Dean/Student Support Coordinator at Mankato State University, from which she retired in 1989. She was the original author in 1978 of a funded Upward Bound grant, which continues to enable countless students to be the first in their family to graduate from college. Rosemary was in charge of the Mexican Teacher Exchange Program at Mankato State University. She received the Distinguished Alumni Award from Mankato State University.

At the age of 19, after the untimely death of their mother, Rosemary assumed the role of mother for her siblings. She continued this care and concern for them and their families throughout her life. She sewed quilts and clothes for her children and grandchildren and mended countless shirts and pants. Rosemary served as the family historian and never missed a Connors family reunion at which she regaled everyone with memories.

Rosemary was a dedicated volunteer at St. Joseph the Worker Parish in Maple Grove for Angel Quilters, funeral lunches and Parish Council. She was president of the board of the Applewood Pointe Cooperative.

Memorials are preferred to St. Joseph the Worker Parish, 7180 Hemlock Lane, Maple Grove, MN, 55369. Visitation will be at the church on Saturday, April 11 at 1:00 p.m. followed by the funeral service at 2:00.

Rosemary was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and dear friend to many. She spent her life helping others become better educated. She was a strong civil rights and women’s rights advocate who believed in equal opportunity for all. Rosemary was a life long learner. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

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