Rosemarie passed away peacefully surrounded by family, with her husband Mark holding her hand and caressing her forehead on April 14th 2021 in Victoria BC where she was taken by the Angels to be with the Lord.
Rosemarie was born in Victoria on July 21st 1961 and is predeceased by parents Franz and Maria Schmid. She leaves the Love of her life, her husband Mark of 35 years. She will be lovingly remembered by sister Heidi, niece Carmen (David) great-nephew Matteo, nieces Claudia & Gisella (Rosario), mother-in-law Shirley, sister-in-law Lorraine (Mike), niece Kathryn (Lyndon), nephews Cameron & Jordan, sister-in-law Michelle (Darren) nieces Janelle (Jared) & Jennifer and many other extended family and friends.
Rosemarie’s life was to be one of service being a BC Civil Servant for her entire working career which included many appointments including Government House where she met Queen Elizabeth and personally got to know five of BC’s Lieutenant Governors. Rosemarie found an additional way of serving the community in philanthropy on the organizational teams for Visions, the Women of Distinction awards and the Board of Ballet Victoria.
Rosemarie’s passions were her garden, cooking and baking to share with family and friends, travel, the Arts, dance and especially ballroom dancing with her husband Mark.
At an early age Rosemarie played the piano but, in her teens, decided to take Ballet and met Paul Destrooper (Future Artistic Director of Ballet Victoria). Rosemarie was to dance with Paul in the school production Mary Poppins where she played Mary Poppins and Paul, Bert. It was hard to imagine that after all those years Paul and Rosemarie would keep in touch and in 2008, she joined the Board of Ballet Victoria as the president. Rosemarie worked with determination, tenacity and tirelessly continuing her passion with Ballet Victoria until she passed away helping to leave a legacy that will live on. As a tribute to Rosemarie, a pair of Pointe Shoes will be interred with her signed by the members of the Company of Ballet Victoria with the inscription “Thank You! Dance with the Angels”. She would have been so proud.
That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life (John 3:15)
We thank McCall’s for their organization of a private interment for family and friends at Royal Oak Burial Park.
In Lieu of Flowers please make Donations in Rosemarie’s name to Ballet Victoria PO Box 8877 Victoria, BC V8W 3Z1, https://www.balletvictoria.ca/product-category/donations/
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Valda Kitching
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Aranka Szaniszlo My deepest condolences Mark, on the passing of Rosemarie.
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Valerie Collins Valerie Collins and Liam Arthurs
For all who knew Rosemarie, our lives were enriched by her presence. She was talented, fun-loving, generous, classy, and lovely in every way. We share your sadness at her loss, Mark, and we wish you comfort, now and in times to come. We miss her and we will never forget her.
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Laurene Henwood I remember Rosemarie at dances during workshops.
I didn’t know her personally but she was so kind.
My sincere condolences to you & your family members.
May God guide you during this time.
Sincerely,
Laurene Henwood
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Linda Spiller Heidi, for the loss of your little sister; Carmen, Claudia & Gisella, for the loss of your auntie; and Mark, for the loss of your lovely and lively life partner I am truly sad. From when we were babies, Rosemarie was my first friend and god-sister and I will sorely miss her.
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Maria Dominelli We will miss Rosemarie, a gracious and beautiful soul who gave tirelessly and never complained. We will treasure the fond memories of our friendship and her dedication to Ballet Victoria. Sending love and light to Mark, family, Paul & Ballet Victoria…and to the community who will carry on her legacy.
Maria & Dan
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Richard Waterfield Brenda and I are shocked and saddened to learn of Rosemarie’s passing. Condolences to you Mark and extended family. She was taken far too soon.
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Jane and Ian Wood Our sincere condolences to Rosemarie’s family. She was generous, gracious, genuinely kind and always elegant. She will be missed all at Ballet Victoria.
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Colleen and Jose Olague We were so saddened to learn of Rosemarie’s passing. I worked with Rosemarie early in her career in the Honourable Bill VanderZalm’s office where she lit up the office with her bright smile, showed great enthusiasm and patience in every task she undertook. Not only was she bright, but she had a welcoming presence and was so very kind to everyone she met. She also had amazing sense of style for a woman of her young age and carried herself with such grace. Although the years we shared were far too few, she will always have a place in my heart. She is now dancing with the angels and it is her smile that will be my everlasting memory of her. Our sincere condolences to Mark and their family.
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Heinz Mueller and Mary To Heidi and Family. Please accept our deepest Sympathy on the passing of Rosemarie.
So Young, so Sad.
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Michael F Morres Dear Mark
I was both shocked and saddened to hear the news if Rosemarie’s passing. Please accept my sincere condolences.
Mike
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Robert and Gloria Klassen Dear Mark,
Our deepest condolences to you and yours. Rosemarie had such a lovely sense of grace and charm and we feel very blessed that she was a part of our lives.
Stay strong, may cherished memories help ease the pain over time, we know that her presence will always be with you.
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Rebecca Olson I am deeply saddened to learn about Rosemarie’s untimely passing.
I worked with her briefly at the Ministry of Advanced Education back in the early 2000s, and was always impressed by her work ethic and profoundly kind nature. I didn’t know her for very long, but her graciousness made a lasting impression!
I have followed with interest her involvement with Ballet Victoria, and know she will be dearly missed by all who knew her! My deepest condolences on your loss!
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Jane Bourree Mark,
I was so saddened to see news of Rosemarie’s passing.
Rosemarie was such an elegant and kind woman. Whenever I ran into her, in the grocery store or at an event, she had a big smile on her face. She was just as bubbly and sweet as I remember her when we first met after moving next door to both of you.
My sincere condolences to you and Rosemarie’s family.
Jane (Billson) Bourree
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Katherine McDonnell I am so very very sorry to hear of Rosemarie’s passing. My heart goes out to all her family, and especially to Mark.
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Sue Goldsmith Mark, I am so sorry to hear of your loss of Rosemarie.
I worked with Rosemarie many decades ago in the Ministry of Forests when she was first beginning her career. I remember her as a beautiful lovely young woman who worked very hard and was so professional. I also remember her driving around in her extremely large white car and her excitement in planning your wedding.
She was a very special lady and I feel so sad that she passed away so young.
My sincere condolences to you and her entire family.
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Dana Brandt My sincerest condolences. Rosemarie was so much more than just the board president of Ballet Victoria. Rosemarie went above and beyond for Ballet Victoria, completely invested in our success. She cared so much for the art form, but also for us artists. Before every opening night she would personally gift each of us a beautiful rose. She will be truly missed but remembered forever.
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John de Pfyffer and Carla MacGillivray We will sincerely miss the kind and gentle nature of Rosemarie.
She had a love of life and a passion for everything from good food and fine wine to dressing up and going dancing.
We are missing Rosemarie along with you Mark. You have our deepest sympathy.
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Jan Duncan Mark, my heartfelt condolences to you and your extended family on Rosemarie’s passing. Although I didn’t know her well, the tributes written by so many people speak of a loving, hard working, creative and graceful lady. Cherish the memories..
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Joyce Harrison To all the family of Rosemarie. We were shocked and greatly saddened when we saw the notice of Rosemarie’s passing. I remember when she was born. In 1969, She was one of our two flower girls at our wedding in 1969. I was looking at an old wedding picture just the other week.
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Harry Mueller Dear Heidi,
I mourn with you the passing of your beautiful baby sister. The last time I remember seeing her was as she prepared to go with friends to a Bay City Rollers concert at the Memorial Arena more than forty years ago. It appears she had a very fulfilling life, accomplished much, and was loved by many.
Mom and Dad called me this morning to tell me the very sad news after reading about Rosemarie in the Times Colonist.
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Marc-André Ouellette Dear Mark,
May I offer you my sincere condolences. I had the honour to work with Rosemarie for many years at Government House. Although our paths took different directions over the years, Rosemarie always kept in touch, and was always willing to volunteer for different projects at Intergovernmental Relations and the Office of Protocol. All co-workers will always remember her fondly as an enthusiastic, hard working, truly dedicated and tenacious colleague. May you find solace and comfort in this difficult time, knowing that Rosemarie brought joy, elegance, grace and serenity to all that she endeavoured.
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Sheryl Masters Rosemarie always had a smile to share. To her family and friends, I am so sorry for your loss. How sad for you all at Ballet Victoria.
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Kenn and Alana Pearce Mark and family. We are deeply saddened by Rosemarie’s passing. We are glad to have met both of you and enjoyed sharing ballroom dancing activities with you.
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Jean and Lina Mark, we are shocked and so sad for you. No words, but I am sure she will foxtrot in the sky until you go and see her. Our love man.
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John and Barb Yankoski Barb and I were saddened to hear of Rosemarie’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you at this sad time.
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Valerie Boal My condolences to Mark and the rest of Rosemarie’s family. It was always a pleasure to catch up on her many passions when she came for her dental visits. May your happy memories help you through this most difficult time.
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Rose and Don Moss Mark and Family
We so loved being part of your neighborhood and hearing about Rosemarie’s accomplishments when we were workmates. Your late night party music was epic! Big hug, my friend.
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Brian Losie Mark, I am so sorry for your loss. I believe that a little part of all who we have come in contact with live on within our soul and we are better for it. My sincere condolences.
The heartfelt sentiment you posted here is very touching and clearly reflects your love of Rosemarie.
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Lorraine White Dear Mark and family, I was so shocked and saddened to see Rosemarie’s obituary in the paper today. I have very fond memories of you both while working with you on decorating your home. Rosemarie was such a beautiful lady in so many ways and I know that you will miss her terribly. I am so sorry for your loss and my heart felt condolences go out to you and your family at this very difficult time.
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SUZANNE RADICK Our condolences Mark, in the loss of your beautiful wife.
We hope you can take comfort in knowing you were a loving and caring partner in your journey together with Rosemarie through this life.
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Dana Dyck I did not know Rosemarie well but had some contact with her through her commitment to Ballet Victoria, which I am also associated with in a volunteer capacity. I admired Rosemarie for her unwavering belief in Ballet Victoria. She was the driving force behind many fund raising ventures and her tenacity made it happen. No one can replace her. She will truly be missed and remembered forever, and I wish I had got to know her better.
I send my deepest condolences to her family.
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Kristine Letson Very sad to hear of this. I am so sorry and send much love to Rosemarie’s family. Rosemarie was the quintessential Mary Poppins and I remember well her dedication and passion to the world of dance.
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Devi Jawl We were so very sad at the loss of Rosemarie. She worked tirelessly as President of Ballet Victoria and we will miss her vibrant personality and dedication. She never once mentioned her health issues and always stayed positive. She will be missed by the arts community and especially Ballet Victoria. Our condolences to Rosemarie’s family. May she rest in peace.
Bob and Devi Jawl
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Lisa Samphire and Bob Brown The world has lost an incredible person in Rosemarie. You will be missed. Sending our deepest sympathies and hugs to Mark and family.
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Suzanne Creighton Rosemarie and I worked together for a time at Government House. Following that, it was always a pleasure to meet up with her, and hear of all the exciting work she was doing with Ballet Victoria, as well as her many other community work. Mark, I am certain that your heart is aching with pain and loss at present; however, I do know that your faith, together with the loving support of your family members and dear friends will help to sustain you through this awful time. Rosemarie will be remembered so very, very well by so many, and her legacy will continue to reverberate in Victoria for a long time to come.
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J. Michael Roberts Our deepest condolences to Mark on the passing of his beloved Rosemarie. Rosemarie and I worked together at Government House for a number of years and her sunny personality and professionalism contributed much to the often challenging activities in the schedule of the Lieutenant Governor. She was a much appreciated member of the GH team and will be remembered fondly by those who worked with her.
Rest in peace, Rosemarie.
Michael Roberts
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Elizabeth Stevenson My sincere condolences to the families. The very little I knew of Rosemarie’s many accomplishments, I came to know her as a beautiful woman with a beautiful soul.
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Doug and Joan Easton Mark,
Our heartfelt condolences on your loss of Rosemarie. I know she will continue to watch over you.Doug and Joan
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Darrel and Diane Berg Rest In Peace beautiful lady. To the family, move forward knowing that this amazing woman touched so many lives and did so much for others. She will not be forgotten. Mark, please know we are thinking of you and our prayers are with you.
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Grania Litwin It is with great sadness that we heard of Rosemarie’s passing. Her contribution to the artistic life of Victoria was immeasurable and did not go unnoticed. Her love and passion for dance was evident in her tireless dedication to Ballet Victoria, the art form and the nurturing of young artists. She will be missed but her legacy will live on.
On behalf of all of us a Pacific Opera Victoria please accept our deepest condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Grania Litwin,
Chair, Pacific Opera Victoria
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Stedman Mark: with the distance separating us, I can not offer much more than words at this sorrowful time for you.
May care and love of those around you provide comfort and peace to get you through the days ahead. My most sincere condolences
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Sue McCaskill Rosemarie, I loved working with you on Tea for Tutu at Ballet Victoria. You will be sadly missed. Dance among the stars!
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Gayle Wigmore and Paul Hartman Paul and I send our heartfelt condolences to you and your family at this sad time. Rosemarie was such a lovely lady and we always enjoyed her company. She has such an enthusiasm for life and we always enjoyed watching you two dance. Rosemarie will always be close to you with loving memories.
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Mauro & Katy Vannucci Mark and family of Rosemarie,
Our sincere sympathy goes out to you all.
Rosemarie was a kind, gentle and loving woman.
It was our honour to have known her and she will always
remain in our prayers and our memory.
May She Rest In Peace in the arms of our Lord.
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Gayle Wigmore and Paul Hartman Paul and I send our heartfelt condolences to you and your family at this sad time. Rosemarie was such a lovely lady and we always enjoyed her company. She had such a enthusiasm for life and we used to enjoy watching you two dance! Rosemarie
will be greatly missed. You will always keep her close with loving memories.
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Nels Moxness Words can not express the sadness we feel at the loss of Rosemarie, she was such a beautiful person. We offer our deepest condolences and hope that you can find comfort in the love that surrounds you . Always thinking of you .
Diane and Nels
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Johan and Helene Destrooper With heartfelt sympathy for your loss. We remember and celebrate with gratitude the passion and achievements of Rosemarie for Ballet Victoria.
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Scott and Lori Rosemarie was such a beautiful person inside and out.
Our sincere condolences to you Mark and the Family. Your love for Rosemarie and hers for you is an inspiration to us all. Sending you much love.
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Dorothy and Peter Sparanese Dearest Rosemarie your bright smile and genuine greetings will always be in our hearts.
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Cathy Avon My condolences to Rosemarie’s family and friends. I know you will miss this amazing lady.
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Mark Liscum To My Love
Rosemarie my heart is broken and may never mend
On Angels wings you were meant to fly
You have been taken from your pain and despair
and you are now at peace with the Lord
Fear not my Love the Angels will hold you in their arms
until I can hold you in mine again
So please save a dance for me
I Love you eternally with all my heart
Forever Mark
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George and Irene Ambeault Our sincerest condolences at Rosemarie’s passing. May she be at peace in her new heavenly home.
“Sei getreu bis in den Tod, so will ich dir die Krone des Lebens geben.” Offenbarung 2, 10b
Es ist schwer, einen geliebten Menschen zu verlieren, aber es ist troestend zu erfahren, wie veil Liebe, freundschaft und Achtung ihm entgegen gebracht wurden.
But you are not gone wholly. You live on as our guide and inspiration. You are now our highest heavenly muse.