Rose Mary Kolpatzki

Born in St. Charles, Virginia, to Lewis Bowman and Mary Allie Teague, she discovered her passion for music early. She earned degrees from the University of Tennessee, Columbia University, and the University of Georgia, dedicating her career to advancing music education. As Supervisor of Music for DeKalb County elementary schools, she led curriculum innovations, supported music educators, and represented the district nationally. She also contributed to public educational television, ensuring music remained accessible to all.

In 1963, she married the love of her life, Lothar Jürgen Kolpatzki, sharing nearly three decades of devotion until his passing in 1991. A lifelong supporter of the arts, she was active in the Atlanta Symphony Associates and Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, where her faith and love for music intertwined. A fluent German speaker, she embraced Lothar’s heritage through language and travel.

A leader among educators, Rose Mary was an active member and held key roles in numerous music organizations, including the Georgia Music Educators Association (GMEA), the Music Educators National Conference (MENC, now NAfME), Sigma Alpha Iota, and Alpha Delta Kappa (ADK). She mentored teachers and represented ADK internationally.

An avid traveler, Rose Mary explored the world with joy but always returned to her greatest passions—music, education, and her cherished dachshunds.

She is survived by many friends, colleagues, and admirers who were touched by her wisdom, kindness, and dedication to music education.

A visitation will be held at Lutheran Church of the Redeemer (731 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308) on March 1, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the church in support of music education.

Her legacy lives on in the music she championed and the educators she supported. May she now be reunited with Lothar, making music once more.