Michael William Rose

Michael William Rose
Des Moines, Iowa

Fly high, Dad.

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude, we remember Michael William Rose, a proud Vietnam veteran whose life was marked by courage, sacrifice, and resilience. He served his country with honor, answering the call to duty in one of the most difficult chapters of our nation’s history. The memory of his service will live on in the stories we tell and the legacy he leaves behind.

Though the war followed him home and left him carrying heavy burdens, it did not erase the light within him. We will always remember his humor, his Stubborn strength, and the moments of tenderness he gave to those he loved. He found joy in simple pleasures—fishing on quiet waters, cheering for the Chicago Bears, and the occasional trip to try his luck at gambling. These were the glimpses of peace that kept him going, and they are the memories we hold close.

The war is finally over for him now. The battles in his mind and the ghosts in his heart have been laid to rest. Today, we celebrate his service, we honor his sacrifice, and we release him into peace and freedom.

He is survived by his children, Tina (Todd) Heuermann, Tony Rose and Pat (Karri) Rose; brother, Pat (Kris) Rose; grandchildren, Kase, Charlie, Kalyx, AJ, Cassie, Joey and Dottie; great grandchildren, Holden and Maren; cats, Zeke and Motorhead.

Preceded him in death are his parents, Don and Grace Rose; siblings, Larry Don Rose and Judy Myers; brother-in-law, Steve Myers and grandson, Kole Heuermann.
With love and pride, we say goodbye. Fly high, Dad—you are free.

Family will greet guests on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Ave., Des Moines, Iowa. A military funeral with full honors will be held to recognize his service at 12:00 p.m., at the funeral home. Mike will be laid to rest at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery, 1 NE 60th Ave., Des Moines, Iowa.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Legion Post #374, 3712 2nd Ave., Des Moines, Iowa 50313.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com

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