Ellen Merrill Rose, born on November 1, 1919 in Seattle, Washington to Harry and Lena Merrill, and passed away on November 6, 2011 at The Forum Senior Living facility in Dallas, Texas. She was 92 years old. Preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Bert E. Rose, Jr., and her son, Brian Merrill Rose, both of Dallas. She is survived by her sons Stephen E. Rose and wife Rhonda of Dallas, Scott A. Rose and wife Carol of San Antonio, plus five grandchildren: John E. Rose and wife Elizabeth of Dallas, Sarah R. Rose of Dallas, Matthew S. Rose and Emily S. Rose of San Antonio, and Patrick J. Rose of Minneapolis, Minnesota. She is also survived by four great grandchildren. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother who encouraged her sons and grandchildren to be competitive, and unafraid of life. Her support was unwavering. Her husband was a long time NFL executive and, possibly as a result, she developed a sophisticated appreciation of sports at all levels, including her many time consuming duties with her sons’ various sports activities. Truly, there was not a sport that she did not enjoy or have some knowledge about. In addition, she was an excellent, competitive bridge player, and a member of various book clubs, and charitable organizations. She was a loyal friend who nurtured life long friendships with many people from all over the country. She showed great strength and courage during the last few years of her life, particularly after her vision failed her. She never complained, and the loving concern for the well being of her family never diminished. She was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by all of us. There will be a private Funeral Mass and graveside service on Wednesday, November 9, 2011 at Calvary Hill Cemetery in Dallas. Memorials can be made to St. Monica’s School, 4140 Walnut Hill Lane, Dallas, Texas, 75229.
