Rosemary Kalbes, 84, of Oconto Falls, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 4, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Born on Jan. 14, 1941, in Milwaukee, Rosemary dedicated her life to her family.
Rosemary’s greatest joy was spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Rosemary enjoyed crocheting beautiful afghans for her family, a testament to her love and care. She also found pleasure in the mental challenges presented by crossword and jigsaw puzzles.
One of her fondest memories was a family trip to Hawaii, where she experienced the beauty of the islands surrounded by her loved ones. She also enjoyed Elvis Presley’s music and movies. Another favorite memory over the last few years was playing Skip-Bo as a family.
Her grandchildren will always remember as they outgrew her, she loved to tell them, “I’m not short, I’m fun-sized!”
A loving mother, Rosemary is survived by her daughter, Judy (Don) Prem; two sons, John Kalbes and Leslie “Gordy” Kalbes; 12 grandchildren, Tasha (Jesse) Hagel, Tabitha (Charles) Helsinger, Ryan (Kara) Otradovec, Chance (Priscilla) Prem, Reese (Corey) Otradovec, Logan Kalbes, Audrey (Mac) Kalbes, Willie Funk, Scott Kalbes, Lillian Kalbes, Nicole (David) Kalbes, Dakota Kalbes; and 13 great-grandchildren.
Rosemary was preceded in death by her parents, Emil and Esther Broderick; and husband, Leslie Kalbes, in 1991.
Visitation will take place on Thursday, April 10, 2025, from 4-7 p.m. at Jones Funeral Service. Visitation will continue at the funeral home on Friday after 9:30 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11 a.m. Rosemary will be laid to rest at St. Michael Cemetery in Suring.
A special thank you to her cancer team, especially Dr. Tahsildar, and all other staff and nurses at Bellin Hospital for their compassionate care.
Rosemary Kalbes
