Obituary of Rosemary A. Freeman

Of Pittsburgh died peacefully at home in Seattle, WA on February 25, 2021 from complications of Alzheimer’s Disease. For 78 years, Rosemary led a life devoted to her family, her friends, and her faith. Born on May 10, 1942 to Anne S. Hill, Rosemary grew up in Pittsburgh, PA. She enjoyed a successful career as a court reporter, which she later grew into her own small business. The role she cherished most, however, was raising her children. She was the mom who always had a hot breakfast, volunteered at school functions, and drove to every away game. After retiring, Rosemary volunteered with the Pet Friends Program at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, visiting patients and families with her rescue beagle “Missy.” Rosemary was an excellent cook, a skilled baker, an avid reader, and a dedicated gardener. She loved to dance and she pursued painting as a hobby, which continued in the later years of her life. In 2017, Rosemary relocated to Seattle to take advantage of Washington State’s innovative approach to dementia care. In Seattle, her paintings were featured in an art show and in promotional materials for an adult day program she attended. Even in the advanced stages of dementia, Rosemary demonstrated remarkable resilience. Her personality endured, as evidenced by her quick, friendly quips and her love of laughter. Long after all other memories had faded, Rosemary could still sing the words to dozens of songs, to the amazement of her family and caregivers. Rosemary is preceded in death by her cherished partner Rubin Gonzales of Pittsburgh. She is survived by daughter Anne Shonnard, son-in-law Doug, and grandchildren C.J. and Jonnie of Northern, VA; daughter Kara Miller, son-in-law Bill, grandchildren Nina and Michael Zinobile, and their father Tom Zinobile of Pittsburgh; daughter Amy Freeman, daughter-in-law Brianna Enriquez, and grandchildren Benjamin and Kate Freeman of Seattle, WA; son Ron Paul Freeman, daughter-in-law Amy, and grandchildren Nicholas and Dessa of Pittsburgh; and niece/honorary daughter Ena Marino, PA. A funeral mass will be held at St. Paul’s Cathedral at 10 a.m. on Monday, March 8, 2021, followed by interment at Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or Animal Friends of Pittsburgh. Arrangements by McCabe Bros., Inc. Condolences may be left at www.mccabebrothers.com