Rosemary Ellwanger
March 08, 1937 — April 18, 2025
Rosemary Ellwanger, 88, passed away April 18, 2025.
She was born March 8, 1937. Rose worked in the service industry for many years. Rose stayed busy as she balanced working full time, raising her family, and church commitments. She was a member of Fort Des Moines Church of Christ for many years and a devoted Christian. Rose enjoyed socializing with her senior groups, playing cards with family, bingo, and attending her grandchildren’s many activities. Rose also enjoyed watching the Iowa Cubs, Chicago Cubs, and the Minnesota Vikings.
Rose is survived by her children, Daniel Ellwanger, Scott Ellwanger, Kimberly (Steve) Crocker; James (Melinda) Ellwanger, Jan (Jeffrey) Jeske, and LeAnn Peterson; 7 grandchildren, Steve Jr., Katie, Miles, Miranda, Jess, Afton, and Josh; 10 great grandchildren, Malachi, Mika, Levi, Titus, Case, Evie, Julian, Rev, Deacon, and Audrey; and three sisters, Delma (Richard) Swanson, Helen Burr, and Betty Hall.
She was preceded in death by her husband, George Ellwanger; parents, Dallas and Anna Stapp; brother, Richard Stapp; son-in-law, Bruce Peterson; and grandson, Blake Peterson.
Family will greet friends Sunday, April 27, 2025 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Avenue in Des Moines. Service will take place the following day Monday, April 28, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. also at the funeral home. Burial to follow at Highland Memory Gardens 1 NE 60th Avenue in Des Moines.
Memorial contributions can be made to the family in loving memory of Rose.
Ronda (McBee)
04/27/2025
I immediately recognized Rosemary! Her picture looks just as she looked when I worked with her at Reeds Ice Cream, 46 years ago... Her kind eyes and welcoming gaze...I was 14. I loved her soft voice and gentle direction. My first real job! Rosemary was part of a team of the most amazing people. I got to know two of her kids, Scott and Kim, through work and school. Working with and knowing them and the entire crew was part of the absolute best start to my young life. I have wonderful memories of Rosemary's kind, soft words and gentle direction. Her advise extended beyond the workplace and included pearls of wisdom for life. Thank you Rosemary!