Rose E. Unate

Rose (Rosa) Elizabeth Unate, born March 27, 1951, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, and friend, passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at the age of 75.

Rose was a woman of gifts. Beyond the quilts she stitched, the baskets she wove, and the baked goods she lovingly prepared, her greatest gifts were the memories she created and shared with all who were fortunate enough to know her.

She was the beloved wife of 55 years to her best friend and partner, Luis. In their life together, Rose learned Spanish and how to prepare the foods of his childhood, bridging distance and culture so his new home would feel like the one he left behind. She was a proud and loving mother to Tony, Tina (Michael Coen), and Jaime (Rosie), a role she cherished for more than five decades.

In 1996, she embraced one of her greatest joys; that of becoming a grandmother. She leaves behind her grandchildren Ben (Clare Nelson), Jake (Sue), Marco, Angela, Jamy, Jacyn (Korben), and Sofia (Gage), each of whom brought immense pride and happiness to her life.

Rose dedicated 21 years to her work as a teacher before retiring to focus on the things she loved most: gardening, sewing, and spending time with her family. Her home was filled with big and small testaments to the deep love and pride she held for her children and grandchildren.

She found joy in life’s simple moments and traditions: trips to Frostie Freeze, summer days at the pool, birthday piñatas, egg hunts, Halloween celebrations, and countless holiday gatherings. She had a way of turning ordinary moments into lasting memories.

Rose’s kindness extended beyond her immediate family. Through her teaching, friendships, and shared passions for quilting and crafts, she formed deep connections with many. After the loss of her son Tony, she continued to bring people together, hosting annual holiday gatherings as a reminder of the importance of connection, love, and community.

She was known for her selfless spirit, always creating something special for others—whether it was a quilt, scrapbook, handmade card, or thoughtful gift. She welcomed everyone with a shy smile and open heart.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Orville and Eleanore Davy; her sisters, Mary and Margaret; her beloved son Tony; and her dear friend Wanda.

She will be remembered as a loving mother, musician, educator, gardener, quilter, scrapbooker, photographer, devoted friend, and grandmother—and, in her family’s eyes, the world’s greatest wrestling fan.

In her passing, Rose leaves behind the enduring gift of her memory and the reminder to show kindness in small ways every day, to make others feel seen, and to stay connected with those we love.

A celebration of Rose’s life will be held on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at 4pm at Salamone’s Restaurant in Fort Atkinson.

Dunlap Memorial Home in Fort Atkinson is assisting the family.

www.DunlapMemorialHome.com

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.