Rose Elaine Wasko

Rose Elaine Wasko, 82, of Overland Park, KS passed away on November 8, 2023 with her family by her side. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to your favorite cause or charity. A Celebration of Life will be from 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm on Sunday, May 12th, 2024 at the Meadowbrook Park Clubhouse, 9101 Nall Avenue, Prairie Village, KS 66207.

Rose was born November 29, 1940 in Pittsburg, KS to Frank and Eva Torres. She graduated from Chanute High School in 1958 and St. Mary's School of Nursing in 1963. Rose worked as an R.N. at St. Mary's Hospital and St. Joseph Medical Center. Rose worked hard to learn that it took effort, at times, to see the good in situations and in people but if you made the choice to find gratitude and give grace, it was always a choice one could make. She was naturally drawn to those who were struggling and always reached out to provide hope, along with a message of acceptance. Rose believed strongly that connecting with others could heal emotional wounds.

From an Anonymous Friend - Rose was a long time member of the Friends of Bill W., where she served as a mentor and friend to many who remember her kind and loving strength. She had many memorable sayings like, "Thank you God, I wouldn't have it any other way" or "Thank you God that is my problem today."

Rose told me the night before her passing that she could always fall asleep if someone she loved was holding her hand--and then clasped my hand. She was loved. She knew how to love. She took her role as friend seriously and with great responsibility and passion. Rose always had the right words or stories to help support any situation. She made it appear effortless to choose gratitude and grace and left warmth and love in her path. She will be deeply missed. I am forever grateful she crossed mine.

She is survived by her husband, Joseph of the home; sister, Cecilia Jordan of Las Vegas, NV; sons, Thomas and Stephen; daughter, Kathryn (Patrick); and grandchildren, Kylie, Emma, Tatum and Quinn; sisters-in-law, Dottie Novak and Barbara Wasko; and nieces, nephews, cousins; extended family and friends.

Rose touched many lives with her loving advice and counsel. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mcgilleyhoge.com for the Wasko family