Obituaries

Rosie Lange, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on January 1, 2025, surrounded by family. She was born on March 16, 1931, to Frederick and Theresa Dittberner, who instilled in her a deep Catholic faith and a strong devotion to family—values she carried with her throughout her life. She lovingly cared for her parents in their final years, honoring the bond they shared.

On June 5, 1951, Rosie married Norman Lange at St. June's Chapel in San Diego, California. Their 47-year marriage was filled with love and partnership until Norman’s passing on April 4,1998. Together, they created a beautiful family that grew to include six children, nine grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren, with two more great-grandchildren on the way. Rosie’s unwavering dedication to her family was a cornerstone of her life.

A devout member of St. Olaf Catholic Parish, Rosie’s faith was the foundation of everything she did. She had a passion for life that shone through in her many activities. An avid golfer, she also enjoyed playing bridge and euchre, forming lasting friendships in Lake Windsor, Madison, and Springbrook. Rosie looked forward to her weekly dinners at Club 23, a cherished tradition that brought her joy. In the kitchen, she was known for her creative spirit, cooking intuitively rather than following recipes. Her warm personality, infectious sense of humor, and generous heart endeared her to all who knew her.

Rosie is survived by her devoted sister, Irene; her children: Gary (Diane), Terri, Brian (Tammy), Jeff (Kim), Carolyn (Rick, Joe), and Mary (Rob); her grandchildren: David, Jennifer (Brian), Katlin (Scott), Tracy (Ben), Kelly (Kip), Cristopher, Liam, Tayte, and Tennyson; and her great grandchildren: Ethan, Owen, Garrett, Charlie, Howard, and Allen.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of love, faith, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to be a part of her life.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at 11:00AM at St. Olaf Catholic Church, 623 Jefferson Street, DeForest. A visitation will be held from 9:30AM until time of Mass at the church on Tuesday. Burial at St. Olaf Catholic Cemetery.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at St. Mary's Hospital, and Agrace Hospice and Supportive Care for their dedicated service. Please Consider a memorial gift to Agrace Hospice and Supportive Care or St. Olaf Parish. To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com

Memorial Poem—By Mary Elizabeth Frye, “Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep”

Do not stand at my grave and weep,

I am not there. I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow.

I am the diamond glints on the snow

I am the sunlight on ripened grain.

I am the gentle autumn rain.

When you awaken in the morning’s hush

I am the swift uplifting rush of quiet birds in circled flight.

I am the soft stars that shine at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry;

I am not there. I did not die.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services

Windsor/DeForest Chapel

6924 Lake Road

608-846-4250