Obituary of Rose Joss

JOSS: It is with love and profound sadness that the family announces the passing of their mother, grandmother and great grandmother, Rose (Randall) Joss. Rose passed away peacefully on October 21, 2013 at the Brandon Regional Health Centre. Rose was born on March 19, 1930 in Brandon, the youngest child (and only daughter) of Ellen (Cleverley) and Albert Randall. She was raised and, with the exception of three years, lived all her life in Brandon. Rose attended Alexandra Elementary School until the end of her Grade 6 year. Due to the untimely death of her mother, Rose assumed the housekeeping duties for the family and did not return to school. During her youth Rose excelled at swimming and diving, so much so that her older brother, Art, forbade her from going to the Kiwanis Pool when he was on duty as a lifeguard for fear that she would upstage him. She met Peter Gorzen of the Griswold district and they were wed on June 24, 1949. Five children were born into this marriage: Norm, Barb, twins Russ & Ron and Patty. While living in Alberta, Pete was killed in a train-car collision in April, 1956. With four children in tow and pregnant with her fifth, Rose was able to return to Brandon with the help of her brother Bill in order to be close to her family. Rose eventually went on to marry Leith (Lee) Joss whom she had known since childhood. Together they raised Rose's children whom he considered to be his own in every way, even legally adopting them. Rose and Lee also fostered numerous children through the Children's Aid Society even adopting three of their wards whom they fell in love with: Bruce, Donna and Robin. When all of her kids reached school age, Rose went to work to supplement the family income. She found employment first at Chrest's Dry Cleaners and then as a nurse's aide at the Cornwallis Nursing Home and Central Park Lodge. Rose and Lee shared 26 wonderful years together. Their lives were mainly centred around family. They were avid sports fans particularly for hockey and baseball. Another favourite pastime was playing either yahtzee or cards with close friends, especially canasta and hearts. Tragedy struck again in October, 1982 when Lee was killed by a drunk driver while working for Wally's Taxi. Rose was renowned in the family for the many sweaters and baby outfits she knit – in fact she was working on an outfit for her newest great grandson at the time of her passing. She also loved to bake and at Christmas time her freezers were overflowing with goodies for family and friends. After Lee's passing Rose became a diehard bingo player for many years as this was a social outing for her. In later years Rose enjoyed watching TV sitcoms and classic western movies. Anyone who knew Rose well knew that her grandchildren and great grandchildren meant the world to her. This was immediately evident upon entering her home as the living room walls were covered in their pictures. Despite some health and mobility issues during the latter years, Rose was thankful and proud of the fact that she had been able to remain in her own home until the time of her passing. This was in large part due to the devoted care by her son Russ and grandson Corey & his family. Rose was predeceased by: her parents Ellen & Bert Randall; first husband Peter Gorzen; second husband Lee (Jolly) Joss; brothers Ed (Ab), Art and Bill; adopted daughter Donna. She is survived by: daughters Barb & Patty; sons Norm (Violet), Ron and Russ; adopted children Robin & Bruce; 15 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren. She will be sorely missed by her faithful and beloved animal companions: Tippy, Willow and Candy. The ceremony to celebrate Rose's life was held on October 25, 2013 in the Brockie Donovan Chapel with Funeral Celebrant, Kim Lewarne officiating. Grandson Corey Joss, assisted by his children Addison & Carter, acted as the urn bearers. According to her wishes, Rose's ashes were interred with her late husband Lee in the Veterans' section of the Brandon Municipal Cemetery. If friends so desire, a donation can be made in memory of Rose to the Westman Dreams for Kids Foundation, #2-37-11th Street, Brandon, MB, R7A 4J2. Miss Me But Let Me Go Author: Anonymous When I come to the end of the road And the sun has set for me I want no rites in a gloom-filled room. Why cry for a soul set free? Miss me a little-but not too long And not with your head bowed low. Remember the love that we once shared Miss me-but let me go.