Note: This message was originally sent on December 10, 2019
On November 23, we were proud to share (below) with you about our alumnus Rosemary Rief, inaugural Chapter president in Yakima and all-around Gonzaga champion.
Rosemary passed away on November 26. On behalf of everyone associated with Gonzaga, our colleague, Bob Finn, was able to attend her funeral yesterday in Yakima. He shared back with us reflections from the day, like the touching gesture that everyone in attendance received a t-shirt with the words “Rosemary loves Gonzaga” displayed on the front. As Bob was leaving Yakima to head back to Spokane, he spotted the reader board pictured to the left. This is the establishment where our Yakima chapter gathers for events.
From Rosemary’s obituary: Mom quite possibly was Gonzaga University’s biggest fan. She was incredibly grateful for the Jesuit education she received and always jumped on the opportunity to share that with others. She appreciated the values the Jesuits taught and helped so many people to become a Gonzaga student, or at least a supporter. She would spend many lively nights at Jack-Son’s Sports Bar, adorned with a homemade Gonzaga sign around her neck. She would always greet everyone with a warm smile and always made others feel welcome.
Rest in peace, Rosemary. We are grateful for the role model you were to all of us and to your family for sharing YOU with so many Zags over the years.
