Rosemarie Ann Achatz

Age 56

May 15, 1965 -- January 20, 2022

My Dearest Rosie Begonia,

I know how much you love getting letters, so I thought I'd be the first to write to you in your new home with Mom and Dad. Looking back now, you being our little sister is one of the nicest things that could have happened to our family. You could be annoying at times, but what sister isn't?

Growing up you were always busy doing something, whether reading a book; writing a letter to friend or relative; creating a latch-hook gift for someone; or just being the best Aunt and Godmother possible. You know the latch-hook Santa you made for me? It's one of my favorite Christmas decorations. Rosemarie, you were a friend to everyone, inspiring those who had the chance to know you, and when you said, "I love you," you meant it.

People have said that our family did so much for you, but they don't quite get it. It was you who did so much for us – you taught us kindness, love, perseverance, determination, gratitude and empathy. A gift from above, you were very special in such a different way, and not because you were a person with Down syndrome, but because of who you were and what you could give. You gave us a lot. We will remember you most for your unconditional love, affection, generosity, sense of fun, and incredible hugs. Honestly, we feel a little lost without you; you were a bright light in our world and we treasure your memory. Rosemarie, you brought out the goodness in all of us, and we're so grateful to have had you in our lives. Give everyone there a hug & kiss for me.

Love you forever, Ruth

Saint Therese of Lisieux once wrote, "The splendor of the rose and the whiteness of the lily do not rob the little violet of its scent nor the daisy of its simple charm.  If every tiny flower wanted to be a rose, spring would lose its loveliness."  Rosemarie Ann Achatz was one of God's flowers, having both the splendor of the rose and simple charm of the daisy.  She made every day a spring day.

Rosemarie was born on May 15, 1965, in Detroit, to the late Fred and Betty (Hainley) Achatz.  From her first day, she was a special light in the world.  Some see the world as full of challenges.  She saw the world as full of happiness, each day a gift to unwrap and celebrate.  Rose passed away at Bell Memorial Hospital on January 20, 2022, surrounded and lifted up by family.

Rosie "begonia" loved deeply.  She loved her family and friends.  When you sat with her, she wanted a hug and a hand to hold.  She loved singing loudly.  One of her greatest joys was raising her voice to God in church.  It was the sound of angel choirs.  She loved making latch hook rugs, spending hours creating their beauty.  If you received one of Rosie's rugs as a present, it was truly a part of her.  Rosie loved Diet Coke, just like her beloved sister, Sally.  Hand Rosie a can of Diet Coke, and you were her friend for life.  Finally, Rosie loved writing letters to her family and friends.  Her handwriting was beautiful and perfect, and each of her letters ended with the same words: "I love you in all my heart."

Saint Therese proclaimed that all flowers are special and important, filling the universe with God's love and joy.  Ecclesiastes says, "For everything there is a season."  It may be winter here on Earth, but, in heaven, our little Rose is blossoming in the arms of Jesus and Mary.

Survivors include three sisters, Ruth Achatz and Beverly Achatz both of Ishpeming; Mary Beth (Brad) Wegrzyn of Spokane, WA; three brothers, Fred (Diane) Achatz of Macungie, PA; Paul Achatz of Kingsford; Martin (Beth) Achatz of Ishpeming, along with numerous nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents - Fred and Betty Achatz; a brother Kevin Achatz; and a sister Sally Achatz.

A Rosary will be recited at 10:30 AM on Saturday, February 5, 2022, at the St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Ishpeming, followed by visitation until Noon.  A Mass of Christian Burial will then be celebrated at 12:00 PM with Fr. Ryan Ford to officiate. The Mass will be livestreamed, which can be found at ishpemingcatholic.com/live Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic and in consideration to all that are attending, you are asked to please wear a mask. Private interment will take place at the Holy Cross Cemetery in Marquette.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations in Rosemarie's name to the Special Olympics and the National Down Syndrome Society .