William (Bill) Rose

William “Bill” Edward Rose, of Bridgeton, New Jersey, and Wiesbaden, Germany, passed away peacefully on November 15, 2025, at the age of 97. Born June 10, 1928, the youngest of 10 siblings, Bill lived a vibrant and purposeful life, one marked by devotion, humility, a playful wit, and a quiet steadiness that made others feel instantly at ease.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Marlis Martha Rose, his lifelong partner and steadfast companion. Together, they built a rich and joyful life grounded in love, adventure, and unwavering commitment. He leaves behind his children: Robert Earl Rose and his wife Jane; Joyce Rose Cooper and her husband Don; and Patricia Renate Rose and her husband Mathias. Bill was a deeply proud grandfather to Evan, Scott, Lisa, Luca, and Louis, and a delighted great-grandfather to Emilia and Noah. He treasured every branch of his extended family and celebrated each accomplishment, big or small, with genuine pride.

Although rooted in New Jersey and Wiesbaden, Bill’s heart easily spanned continents. He joyfully divided his time between the U.S. and Germany, cherishing the cultural threads and family ties that wove both homes together. His unmistakable joy when surrounded by loved ones, his booming laughter, his gentle humor, and the sparkle in his eyes, was a signature trait. Bill embodied respect, charity, resilience, and integrity, living each day with the kind of quiet strength that left a lasting imprint on everyone he met.

A gifted storyteller, Bill never hesitated to share detailed accounts of his life’s adventure stories filled with history, humor, and a touch of mischief. His wisdom was steady, never forced, and always delivered with the sincerity of a man who lived fully and loved deeply. His legacy lives on in the values he instilled, the relationships he nurtured, and the love he gave so freely.

A special service honoring his memory was held in his beloved Wiesbaden on November 21. A Celebration of Life is being planned for mid-January 2026 in South Florida, where Bill spent many sun-soaked years making memories with family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in his name to Advena Hospiz, Wiesbaden-Erbenheim, https://hospizium-wiesbaden.de/spenden-helfen/spenden whose compassionate care brought comfort and peace in his final days.

Bill will be profoundly missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His light, his laughter, and his love will continue to shine in the lives of those he touched.