Rosanne W. Jackson

November 15, 1935 - August 31, 2016

Rosanne passed away peacefully on August 31, 2016. She was born November 15, 1935 in Oakland California, to Russell and Ruby Wahlgren.

Rosanne attended Pasadena City College and obtained her Bachelors degree at Redlands University, meeting and then marrying Thomas C. Jackson at the beautiful all-glass Wayfarers Chapel on the coast in Palos Verdes, CA. They both attended Stanford University where she obtained her Masters degree in Education and they began their family, moving to Portland Oregon, and to Salt Lake City in 1967. They later divorced and Rosanne devoted her life toward working to improve and enhance children's education and lives. Rosanne had a long and successful career starting as an elementary school teacher in California, Oregon, and Utah. She worked as Director of Title One, as well as Language Arts/Reading Specialist for the SLC School District. She was Principal at Rose Park Elementary School from 1986-2003, when she then retired. While at Rose Park, and gaining partnership with the University of Utah and other community organizations, she spearheaded and fearlessly pioneered forth the creation of the first community learning center which included a school-based community medical clinic that continues to this day, and which became the model for others to follow. She loved and was passionate about her work and her vision of what was possible. Every child mattered, with no child left behind – that was her heart, spirit and soul. After she retired, Rosanne volunteered at the Assistance League holding positions of store manager and vice president of programs.

A strong and skillful yet gentle leader, Rosanne was also a beautiful, smart, fiercely independent, often stubborn, kind, funny, giving, exceedingly generous, caring and compassionate woman, and one who enjoyed hosting a good party. She was always willing to take on the more challenging jobs, and left her footprint in this world.

She is survived by her daughter Cheryle; son Mark; her sister Marlene Kneidl (WA); extended family and many friends; and her cat Chi who rarely left her side providing comfort to the end. She is preceded in death by her only grandson Dylan, whom she loved beyond measure.

Much gratitude and many thanks to her caregiver Jayne, Beehive Senior Care, the staff at Sunrise at Holladay Senior Living, and everyone at Inspiration Hospice and Home Health who attended to her, for all the amazing love and care. Thank you All. Rosanne, you are loved and will be greatly missed. You were inspiring and made a difference in countless lives. May you fly with angels now, and rest in blessed peace, lovely lady.

A gathering to remember Rosanne will be held on Monday, Septmeber 19th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Complimentary valet parking provided on the north side of the building. Online condolences may be offered and a tribute video may be viewed at www.starksfuneral.com

Donations can be made to the Assistance League, to any organization that helps disadvantaged children, or to an animal rescue organization of choice.

 

 

 

 

  

In Loving Memory

Rest in peace sweet lady. Your legacy will live on in the hearts of the many you touched. Thank you for the opportunity to work under your great leadership.

Rusty Mathis

Pearland, TX

I worked with Roseanne for several years at Washington Elem. School & loved having her as my boss. She was a warm, kind hearted soul that loved to have fun! I am so sorry to hear of her passing. Last time we were together was inDenver when she visited. Thoughts are with all of her family. May she rest in peace.

Nancy Dougal

Centennial, Co

May you finally rest in eternal peace, Rosanne. You are free at last of pain and life's earthly struggles, and at rest with all your loved ones who have gone before, especially dear Dylan whom you loved with all your heart, and now Mark who can be forever with the Dad he adored. Our love and comforting arms surround you, Cheryle, as you say goodbye to your earthly family. We are here in spirit with you as you walk the difficult path of saying "farewell, til we meet again." We love you. Aunt Phyllis and your cousins: Margaret, Scott, Stephen, and Bill.

Phyllis Jackson Stegall

San Antonio, TX

I was a student at Rose Park Elementary while Ms Jackson was principal. She was always kind and happy to see us kids. I was lucky enough to go to Washington DC between my 5th and 6th grade year with Ms Jackson, as representatives of our school. One day in DC, I met her in the lobby of our hotel. She handed me a $50 bill and told me to go buy something. So of course I bought a bunch of useless junk. What a cool lady! God bless you Ms Jackson! My most sincere condolences to all family.

Bob Norgaard

Salt Lake City, Ut

Thank you for being an extended family to me in my youth. Thank you for always being kind. God Bless--Enjoy the friends and family on the other side! Lane Larsen (Sam) Las Vegas, Nevada

Lane Larsen

Las Vegas, NV

Send Your Condolences