Rose Evanski

Rose Evanski, age 95, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family and wonderful caregivers. She was the daughter of Dominic and Angeline Gullo. The family is grateful to her caregivers Vicky, Tavi and Carol who cared for mom in her last years and treated us all like family.

Born in Detroit, MI on August 27, 1930, Rose lived a life dedicated to her Catholic faith, family, education, and service to others. She was a devoted teacher for more than 30 years with most spent in the Grosse Pointe School District, where she was among the first educators to develop, teach, advocate for, and implement programs for students with learning disabilities at a time when such services were not yet widely available or understood. Rose inspired generations of students through her passion for learning, kindness, and unwavering commitment to their success. Former students frequently recognized her years later and shared how much she had influenced their lives, something that always brought her immense joy.

Rose and her beloved husband, Frank, built their first family home in St. Clair Shores, MI and later moved to Grosse Pointe Woods, MI where they raised their children and created countless memories with family and friends. For more than 50 years, she shared her life with Frank, the love of her life, building a marriage that became the foundation of our family. Together, they raised four children teaching us by example what commitment, sacrifice and unconditional love looks like. Rose was a loving mother who encouraged her children to think independently, pursue their goals, and stand up for what they believed was right. Though small in stature, Rose possessed remarkable strength, determination, and conviction. She was never afraid to speak her mind when she saw an injustice and taught her children the importance of integrity and fairness.

Together with Frank, Rose was a leader in the Grosse Pointe ARC for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They were instrumental in opening the first group home in Grosse Pointe where son Kenneth lived and flourished for many years.

Education was at the heart of Rose's life. A graduate of Denby High School and Marygrove College, she believed deeply in the value of reading, learning, and lifelong curiosity. Alongside Frank, she filled her home with books, newspapers, magazines, and thoughtful conversation, instilling a love of learning in her family that remains one of her greatest gifts. Rose loved to travel and after retirement she and Frank took many terrific trips with the Nomad’s travel club.

Great summertime memories were also made with annual family outings in Harbor Springs, MI. After retiring from teaching, Rose and Frank enjoyed spending winters at their condominium in Naples, FL where they hosted many family gatherings.

Rose also loved entertaining. Holiday meals, birthday celebrations, and monthly bridge group evenings spent with friends around the dining room table were among her greatest pleasures. Her home was always welcoming, her hospitality generous, and her pride in her family unmistakable.

She leaves behind her son, Robert Evanski (Diane), her two daughters Janet Blakely (Dan), and Andrea Krause (Kip), grandchildren Brian, Brad (Christine), Adam and Nick, and great-grandchild Ellis, her brother Robert Gullo, several nieces and nephews, and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frank, dear son Kenneth, and her sister Josephine Kronbach.

Rose's legacy lives on through the lives she touched as a teacher, mother, grandmother, mentor, and friend. Her love of family, commitment to education, and example of courage and kindness will continue to inspire all who knew her.

A private interment at the Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, MI and a family remembrance service will be held in the fall. The family asks that memorial contributions be directed to the Grosse Pointe/Harper Woods ARC. www.thearcgp-hw.org.

"A teacher takes a hand, opens a mind, touches a heart, and shapes the future." Rose did exactly that. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.