Rose Ann Kamitsuka

Rose Ann Kamitsuka died on July 22,2026 after a long illness. She is survived by her husband Paul, along with their five children – John, David, Lara, Natalie, and Mary, along with sisters Suzanne Conlin, Mary Martel (Gregg), and brother John Conlin. Rose was the eldest daughter of John and Theresa Conlin, a federal judge and nurse/homemaker, respectively.

Rose graduated from the University of Virginia with an R.N., becoming charge nurse just out of training in the UVA hospital post-cardiac surgery ICU. Rose subsequently moved to Boston and to Massachusetts General Hospital, where she worked as charge nurse in their post-cardiac surgery ICU, and subsequently in the emergency room. As a nurse, she was widely respected by her colleagues and physician staff alike. Later in life she pursued post-graduate education in engineering and always enjoyed high level math. She put her skills to good use in tutoring her children – two of whom majored in physics. Rose wanted a large family -- 5 children at least – as she declared to Paul on their first date. Following marriage in 1988, five children were born over the next 6 years, occasioning quite an adventure over the next decades. Rose’s passions, in addition to family, included getting together with friends and extended family, avidly reading two or three books each week, walking/hiking, pilates, and international travel – for which opportunities arose after the children were grown, regrettably cut short by the onset of her illness 8 years ago. Her family will fondly remember and forever treasure her unconditional love and support.

We wish to express special thanks to Rose’s care providers, including Barbara Burdett and Connie Chang. Connie has been a dear family friend for decades, and stepped in to provide invaluable assistance and care, enabling Rose to remain at home in accordance with her wishes. Special thanks also go to dear friends Karen Hansen, Cris Point, Grace Mastalli and to others who brought such joy to Rose during her life; and to Nick Devenero, who provided constant friendship and support amidst very challenging times.

In lieu of flowers, our family would appreciate contributions made to Lower Cape Fear Lifecare, who provided Rose and our family with incredibly attentive care.

Rose will be remembered for her nurturing spirit, her devotion to family, her kindness to others, and her distinctive laugh. She will be deeply missed. A private memorial service will be held at future date.

You may offer online condolences at www.shallottefunerals.com

White Funeral and Cremation Service, Shallotte Chapel