There are memories in my life which involve Rose as a friend, a mentor, as  a very kind person.  Rose will never be forgotten.

I am so sorry to have heard so late about the passing of your mother Rose, Donna.  I only met her a couple of times and she was always very kind and friendly to me each time.  May she rest in peace and may your memories of her always stay close to your heart.

I have always loved my Aunt Rose. I cherish my childhood memories of her laughter & smile, the smile that was just for me! I only wish I'd known her as well as so many others. I was brought to tears many times reading memories from others, realizing once again what a special, multi-talented, respected & beloved person she was and learned so much more about her. I cherished the times Aunt & Uncle John spent with my mum & dad (Jake & Irene) & loved them all the more for sharing their lives with us. The video shows that Auntie's sparkle & mischievous personality endured & has been passed down to through her extended family. My love to all my cousins & their families. -Sharon

Great Grandma,
You were always happy and never complained. You worried more about filling your suitcase with sausage and homemade jam (that I loved) for us then clothes you would need for your trip. I will remember you always smiling and always happy to see us. 


I remember being young and being so excited to go visit Great Grandma and get to explore her awesome house... it was like time travelling back to the 50s. Little did I know that that Rose and that very house, would go on to provide me my sense of home for the past 3 years since I have moved across the country away from the rest of my family. 

I specifically remember one time just last year; I had missed my ferry and realized I wouldn’t get to her house until close to midnight, so I called to let her know not to wait up for me. Sure enough, when I arrived there she is at 94, still awake waiting for me with a full plate of dinner. 

I really appreciated those weekend visits I got with her, even though she never let me beat her in a game of cards.. not even once. 

When brother John brought this charming lady with  the enchanting smile from Vancouver to Gronlid Saskatchewan to display and marry in 1944, I was 7 years old and awestruck. Memories of that union persist. John was so fortunate to have chosen the perfect mate for the next 60 + years of his life. Rose’s many talents, such dedication to family and zest for life were unparalleled. Her on-going visits, hospitality, phone calls and laughter were so much appreciated.

Great Grandma,
I was lucky to have a great grandmother, and I wanted to thank you for all of the visits and memories. I will always remember you judging my cartwheel and helping me to perfect it, and always being ready to give us stacks of coin that you had put aside for us.
I will miss you.
Love,
Grace 

Our condolences go to the many friends and family of Rose.  After reading and seeing her eclectic  life story, her passing is definitely a great loss for all.  She certainly touched many lives in her lifetime and left a wonderful legacy for her family and all to live life to its fullest...Rose certainly did! 

I will miss you Great Grandma...You were the best.  I WILL MISS ALL THE CHRISTMAS'S WITH YOU.

We were so sorry to hear of Rose’s passing, and especially at a time when it was so difficult for the family to be able to say their goodbyes.  

She was a remarkable lady. Though well into her 90’s you would never think of her as “old”. That is the last word you would think of in describing Rose! Her attitude in life, her humour, her enjoyment being in the midst of young people, the way she worked with all the gusto of a young person. She was an inspiration to us and always fun to be around. We will remember her as the vibrant person she was. 


We are sorry that we cannot be with the family during this lockdown time but we are thinking of you and supporting each of you from afar. 

Take care until this isolation thing is over and we can meet again. We will save our hugs till then!

Tribute to Auntie Rose was amazing. She would have been so pleased that you all took the time from your busy lives to do this. I remember seeing some of those photos many many years ago. And the history of family I enjoyed so much. My sincerest condolences to everyone. She is forever  in your hearts ❤️ Darby 

Dear Barry, Shelley & Donna...

I have many fond memories of my Aunty Rose ~~ the kindness she extended me will never be forgotten, nor will her sharp mind and quick wit during our many phone conversations over the years. She was a strong and talented woman who will always have a special place in my heart. Be thankful for the many years you were privileged to have had her share your joys and sorrows and know she’ll be on your shoulder always.

Page 5
Please note that due to a software issue there are 5 pages to this Biography. Please begin at page 1

Rose passed away on
March 23rd, 2020 at 
Saint Michael's Hospice
in Burnaby BC with
her daughter Donna
by her side.  

Rose is survived by her
children:
Barry (Karen), 
Shelley (Paul)
and Donna (Greg) 

sister Milli, 

sister in-laws Kay and Lena, 

brother in-law Nick, 

five grandchildren:
Michael, Marlo, Kristina,
Stephen and Christine,

eleven great grandchildren:
Ben, Max, Grace,
Phoenix, Frida,
Marco, Owen, Sloan,
Ella, Kingsley and Taleah.

and many nieces and nephews


Services were held at 
the Ocean View Cemetery
in Burnaby BC on
Friday, March 27th, 2020. 


Unfortunately due to the 
COVID-19 crisis, the service was limited to Rose’s children Barry, Shelley and Donna and their immediate family members.


Rose was laid to rest
next to her husband John
in the Abbey Mausoleum 
at the Ocean View Cemetery
in Burnaby BC.



Page 4

      Rose approached her leisure time in the same manner that she approached her life.  She appreciated the hours she was able to devote to her various hobbies.  Her favorite hobbies were playing cards, gambling, watching hockey & baseball and gardening.  Rose was content to enjoy her favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share her interests with others. In retirement, she continued to find pleasure in these hobbies and looking after her cats.  
     When it came time to travel or take a vacation, Rose used her scheduling expertise to make sure everyone and everything was ready to go.  That also meant that she made certain no single person was overworked in putting the trip together.  Rose had a knack for making sure that everyone who was involved had their specific tasks and that those tasks were completed.  Her vacations included Vegas, Hawaii, Mexico, Brazil, Puerto Rico, Cuba, Argentina, Russia, Romania, Florida, an Alaskan Cruise and her most recent, the Rocky Mountaineer Trip.
      Rose was a lover of animals and cherished her pets.  One of Rose’s favorites was Smokie, her 1st Cat.  They were best friends for 10 years. Her family was rounded out by her other two cats Casey and Rocky.

Page 3

Being a hard worker who praised efficiency, Rose was always striving to make improvements where they were necessary.  She was able to analyze situations and problems, keeping everything and everyone on track and could quickly make decisions based on the information available. Rose certainly lived out the motto of “give me a job, and I will get it done.” In both her personal and professional environments, Rose upheld her high  standards. She used her critical evaluation skills to make sure that every detail had been preplanned and attended to.  Her ability to take charge of any type of project made her a tremendous asset.  As someone who placed a high value on showing gratitude, Rose could graciously accept a “thank you” extended to her by those she helped.  However, individual recognition wasn’t a motivating force for Rose; rather, when she saw that there was a need to get something done, she was more than willing to give her time and energy in order to see it accomplished.  She would say her primary occupation was Gymnastics Coach, but she was employed at the shipyards as a welder, worked at the woolen mill and later ran a restaurant. Throughout her later years, Rose continued to be involved with gymnastics both judging and coaching. Some of her most prestigious awards included gaining Brevet status as a World Class Judge.

Page 2

Rose was sociable and approachable.  Because she was always so straightforward in how she approached people, friends and family knew that what they saw was always what they got.  She enjoyed the camaraderie of being with a group of friends.  When Rose was a member of a group, her interaction worked to keep the others grounded.  She wasn’t afraid to confront anyone and when necessary, she challenged them to stick to the task at hand.  Those close to Rose came to expect her high standards of performance.
         An objective and conscientious individual, Rose reveled in the security of her family.  On October 30, 1944 Rose exchanged wedding vows with John Glen Miazga at the Roman Catholic Church of Melfort, Saskatchewan.  One of Rose’s most endearing qualities was her uncanny ability to remember important dates and anniversaries. You can bet she would never forget your birthday.
      Rose was ever watchful of her family.  She worried about them and was deeply concerned for their development as they grew up.  She maintained a firm hand in their upbringing.  Rose would give her stamp of approval to their requests, as long as she could see how they might benefit.  She also had the ability to enforce the rules as needed to ensure that her children were properly raised.  Rose was blessed with 4 children, 2 sons, Barry & Wayne, and 2 daughters Shelley & Donna.

Page 1

When someone is identified as a natural leader, certain images come to mind.  First thoughts are of a no-nonsense, tough-minded, dedicated and disciplined person.  This description accurately fits Rose Miazga who was indeed a born manager.  She will be remembered as being organized, practical and realistic.  Possessed with traditional “old school” morals, Rose was an individual who clearly communicated to those around her just who she was and what she was all about.  Everyone acquainted with Rose knew her as a well-respected woman.
As a young girl, Rose was able to put her natural abilities to work. She was a bit like the sergeant of the family, helping to make sure that the others did what they should do and that they avoided those things they weren’t supposed to.  In other words, she liked to organize and direct.  Rose was raised with five siblings.  She had an older sister Kay, two older brothers Walter & Steve, a younger brother Joe and younger sister Milli.  Rose had an inborn appreciation for the order in the family, allowing for the oldest members to be the most respected and to take on the most responsibility.  For Rose, this was a natural order of life, one she gladly embraced. Her faith in the principles of authority and dependability along with a strong sense of duty, was something she carried with her throughout her life.

Great grandma.  I will miss making jello with you and helping by bringing you snacks. I love you so much and really miss you.
Love
Kingsley xo ❤💜

With our love Great Grandma... thank you for everything.

You were strong, fearless and wise. Nothing scared you. I'm just so very lucky my kids got to know you, love you... and more importantly be influenced by you... just as I am every day.

It takes empowered women to empower women. 
Thank you grandma for that incredible gift. I still get scared sometimes... but knowing that you never did has always guided my choices. You were our rock and our balance and I will miss you. 

Our family the Wolkowski's  have been so-so very lucky to meet here in Toronto with the Miazga family.

One time which was a real hoot was when Barry had a milestone birthday organized by Michael at Barry;s home. Michael had a team of professional gamblers come in and show all the guests how to 1. Hold playing cards & 2. How to play professionally a lot of games. YOU guessed it Aunt Rose "MOM" to us all sat and studied with a sharp eye all the moves these young gamblers had to offer....the long and short of this tribute to Mom WAS SHE CLEANED the gamblers house. and they loved to have such a quick study take them down. 

Mother Nature when Mom arrives in Heaven open up your white wings for her and be sure to count all your feathers when she goes off to meet the Lord, as we know Mother Nature  the Lord is your father too. and Mom IS IN the LAND where MOM belongs.
Monica, Jason, Louise and Gerry

Memories of a woman who was my “other”mom for over 55 years?

Yes, I have many.
We live so far from Vancouver, but that never stopped mom and dad, then just mom from flying to Ontario to join us for all the big occasions, as well as many relaxing, sitting by the pool visits with friends and family that all became occasions too!

But what has become so interesting to me these past weeks are the memories written by others.
Mom never spent time talking about herself, she always wanted to hear what I was doing, or what one of our kids or grandkids was up to. 

Reading these “memories” makes me proud.
Proud to have had her help shape who I am.
Proud to have had her help shape who our children are.
Proud, knowing she loved me.

I remember going to the flea market with her when I was little. She knew of all the best vendors, with the best deals of course. She always had fascinating little trinkets around, which always thoroughly entertained me. I also have a vague memory of her telling me a story about finding money in the wall of the bathroom behind the toilet roll holder, a stash of great grandpa's perhaps? 

Her raspberry bushes were delicious (obviously) and very plentiful. I always looked forward to getting jars of her jam delivered by grandma and grandpa, to this day I still think it's the best raspberry jam I've had.  It was nice revisiting these memories.

Great Grandma, 
Even if it put you in pain, you would still come out to watch my races and cheer me on.

Great Grandma Rose,
I liked picking raspberries with you. Thank you for all the jam. I like that my middle name is Rose because it reminds me of you.

To my Grandma, 
I will miss you so much. You were a big influence on my life growing up and responsible for the person I am happy to be today. As a child, I remember seeing all our family at your house for the holiday celebrations, listening to the stories from you and grandpa and then looking at every page of the Sears catalog with Wayne. Grandma, you gave me my first job that allowed me to buy a car and start to explore this world. Grandma, you gave me my first loan to start my own business. Grandma, you gave me guidance with any issue or problem.  Grandma, you gave my family so much love. Grandma, I will miss you so much.

Grandma.........thank you for all your meals and always telling me I need to have seconds and thirds.  

Grandma........thank you for all those family dinners where I had to have seconds and thirds.

Grandma thank you for the times while I grew up going to garage sales, the cloverdale and terminal flea markets and your basement of wonders.  

I love you and grandpa with all my heart.  You are finally together again.......

Mom, there's not a minute of the day that I don't think about you. You were the best Mom ever! You did so much for me which I will always be grateful for. I feel so lost as I am missing our nightly phone calls, whether we talked for an hour or just to say hi. I keep expecting the phone to ring as I look at the clock at 6:00. Nothing is ever going to be the same. 
At your cryptside service, a song by Bette Midler was playing 
[ Wind Beneath My Wings ] At that moment I looked up at the skylight and I saw your shadow fly above my head and I knew it was you. Just then Christine looked at me and said did you see that. She saw you too.

You, Dad and Wayne are forever in my heart. Missing you so much Mom. As I would say to you I love you Mom and you would say to me I love you more. Those four words are are stuck in my heart forever. Those were the last words I would ever hear my Mom say.

Fly High Mom,  I Love You,
Shelley

For my Grandma
We had a lifetime together. We shared our stories and enjoyed our visits. I will keep my memories of our time safe inside. The one I wish to share is the last moment we had together. It is a moment in time that will be with me every day. You reached out to hold my hand and looked me in my eyes and told me you loved me.
I love you
Kristy


Grandma,

It really is so hard to believe that you are gone. We were all so lucky to have you in our lives for as long as we did, and although of course it is not possible to live forever it always felt like you actually would. 

Your were so strong until the very end, and so  enjoyable to talk to with your amazing memories and experiences. 

Ben said to me that he could not believe he was never going to beat you at gin rummy, and then said maybe that is how it is supposed to be. 


Mike, Ben, Max, Grace and I will miss you always and are so grateful for all of our memories with you. Vancouver will never be the same for us.  

Missing you and hoping that one day soon we can get together with the whole family to honour your amazing life. XO

My acquaintance with Rose grew to friendship & later to admiration, when Barry & Karen moved to Toronto. Their visits to Mom were my opportunities to visit them.  
It was usually a couple of times a year that I would head over to Rose's; as I would approach her house I found that year after year all seemed to remain unchanged. I was contented to see the same roses lining her walkway and that wonderful, intriguing gate that stood grand, daring anyone to enter, still standing in its rightful place. And, I could always count on that matter-of-fact welcome from Rose: "of course you're going to come in, watch a bit of the hockey game while Karen is getting ready"; "of course you should have some food with us, help yourself"; "of course I will be making jam again this year, always do";  "no, don't worry, it's ok to interrupt the card game, Barry's losing anyway"; "of course you should have a drink with us before you and Karen go". That matter-of-fact welcome was every visit. If you were in her house, you were "in".
Her interest in life was large and extensive.  Rose would talk on any topic and state her opinions with conviction.  When leaving I
always liked to say to her: "You know, Rose, when I'm your age I want to be just like you!" Rose was one very special remarkable women; without a doubt, she had my admiration and love.
My deepest and most heartfelt condolences to all of Rose's dear, dear family for their sad loss.
I love you all.    Mavis

Mom, you left me so many beautiful memories and with your love, Dad’s and Karen’s guided me to have the amazing family I have today. Although I cannot see you, your love will remain my guide, knowing you are always at my side.
Love always, Barry

My grandma Rose,

So many memories I have to keep in my heart,  everything from helping at swapmeets to many many Christmas's spent together. 
 

When I was little my favorite dessert at grandmas was jello. (Especially when she layered the flavours) grandma decided to pass on that same love for jello I had to my daughter Kingsley.  Almost every visit they made jello together!!! Kings expected it! I will carry on the jello tradition! Although it will never taste as good as grandmas.  Things just ain't gonna be the same without you grandma, you will be deeply missed.

Love  christine

Rose, my second Mom, I will dearly miss you.
You took me into your family as your own.
I will never forget you and think about you daily !!!!



I will always remember Rose for her kindness and patience during my time in the judging community.  My deepest sympathy to her family. 🙏🏻

Our deepest condolences to Rose's family. She was a big part of my gymnastic family as she judged our Canadian Team that I was a part of for many years. Her calm nature inspired me in some way to become a judge of her caliber and give back to a sport we both loved. It showed that she loved what she was doing and gave athletes the respect they earned for their craft. Her smile always put others at ease, RIP Rose.

Rose’s personality was a gift she freely shared with all her fellow enthusiasts involved with gymnastics.
Oh, how this gift was appreciated by athletes, coaches and judges of any level. Always on the positive and encouraging side; always suggesting to do more and better and never demeaning the effort shown.
What a mentor Rose was to so many of us.
If we would put her on a pedestal, she would probable say: “I didn’t do anything; you all did it”.  Maybe, but it would have been much harder. 
Rest In Peace 
Eva Schmidt 

My thoughts and prayers to Roses family and friends.  Many great gymnastic years will forever be in our memories.    Patti

I have so many fond memories of Rose. I’ve known her for almost 30 years. She was my gymnastics coach and later my boss but most importantly, through out those times and well after,  she was my friend and became one of my best friends I’ve ever had. She has done so much for me and has helped me to become who I am today. I have so many fond memories of Rose, many at Renfrew, but also memories of visiting Rose at her house and hanging out with her and her cats watching the hockey and having pizza. She even made sure to buy my baby boy a Canucks jersey to make sure he knows which team to cheer for (I moved to Toronto a few years ago) and it worked, he loves the Canucks. 
Rose is friends with my entire family. My siblings and Mom have spent a lot of time with her as well..one of our favourite times all together are the many visits to White Spot. One of my personal favorite  memories is when Rose would invite myself and my sister to watch recordings of many gymnastic routines to help us get certified as judges. She would get us to judge them with her. If I came within a few tenths of Rose’s score, I felt so proud of myself. Of course having a top level judge (who’s judged around the world) helping us, we passed with flying colors. I feel so blessed that on June 30, 2019 Rose got to witness a very important day for me, my wedding. Rose, I love you! RIP

My favourite memory of Rose, is in the gymnastic community, being at a competition in North Vancouver, and seeing Rose at the age of 80 bringing her Renfrew gymnasts to a competition.  Rose inspired me to keep on coaching and judging, still being younger than 55 then, and have not reached 80 yet.  Thank You Rose and Donna for your leadership in the zone 5 gymnastic community and to one of Rose's best friends, Shirley Bakaway for keeping all the " Older" Judges and Long time gymnastic friends, together with Lunches a few times a year.  We will all miss Rose.

Dear Barry,  Shelley, Donna,  and families
I am so deeply sorry to hear of Auntie Roses passing.  She accomplished so much in her life and is an inspiration to us all.  May all of the happy memories carry you through this difficult time.  My sincere condolences.
Linda King (Kozek)

Gratefulness is the memory of the heart. I will be forever grateful to have had Rose in my life and sharing many wonderful times together. 

She will always be remembered for the love she shared and the happiness she brought to so many.

I will miss her weekly conversations and her sincere kindness.

Rest in peace my dear friend.

To my sister, Rose
You made my world and the world 
a little better because you were in it.

I will miss our daily talks. We said our goodbyes...
I leave you with my most,most favorite saying.
An Aboriginal Philosophy

We are all visitors to this time, this place.
We are just passing through.
Our purpose here is to observe,
 to learn, to grow, to  love..
And then to return Home
Your sister
"Mil"
Salem, Oregon

My mom, the best mom ever. 
You were so brave and strong
and a fighter to the end. 
I am so grateful that you are not suffering anymore.
I will be lost without you, but now I have my own beautiful angel to help me find my way.
Love ya forever mom!
Donna

A thousand words 
 could not bring you back,
  I know because I tried.
A thousand tears
 could not bring you back,
  I know because I cried.
   I really miss you mom.

Although your soul is at rest,
 and your body free from pain,
The world would be like heaven
 if I had you back again.
You’re always in my thoughts,
 no matter where I go,
Always in my heart, 
 because I love you so.
However long my life might last,
 whatever land I view,
Whatever joy or grief is mine,
 I still remember you.
   I really miss you mom.

Very sad to hear about Rose's passing. I did not know her personally but Barry and Karen are two of the greatest friends I have. They are
always there with support and kindness. They are a beautiful family which I know she was very proud of. The best legacy a person can leave. Condolences to all the family and friends that knew her.

OBITUARY

Rose Miazga

July 2, 1924 – March 23, 2020

Hamilton Harron Funeral Home

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