Rosemary “Rosie” Liggett passed away peacefully on Dec. 20, 2023 in Waterford with family lovingly by her side.
Rosie was born on Dec. 1, 1941, to Leo and Ruth McDonald in Boscobel. Her life radiated love, compassion, and joy.
Rosie grew up in Bell Center and graduated from Gays Mills High School in 1959. After finishing her degree in education from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville in 1963, she moved to Burlington to pursue her passion for teaching. There, she worked as a first grade teacher at Waller Elementary School. Her classroom was a sanctuary of warmth and encouragement for all who passed through it.
Rosie married in 1967 and raised three beloved children, Shannon, Heather, and Carrie. Family was at the core of Rosie’s being, and her devotion to her children – and later grandchildren – was unwavering.
Rosie’s immense compassion led her to devote 25 years of her life to the Southern Wisconsin Center, where she taught individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. There, she became a beacon of patience and kindness. Her nurturing spirit touched countless lives, leaving an enduring legacy of empathy and understanding. She retired from the Southern Wisconsin Center in 2010, but continued to see her cherished colleagues each month over lunch, coffee, or conversation.
Rosie was a social butterfly and cultivated many enduring friendships, most notably with her “Friday Nighters,” a group that shared weekly dinners at restaurants throughout Southeastern Wisconsin. She loved attending festivals with outdoor music and dancing. In colder months, she relished walks with friends at Regency Mall or reading political biographies and memoirs.
Whether she was dancing to Mean Jake at the Milaeger’s Farmers Market or on a scenic drive along the lakeshore listening to the Rolling Stones, Rosie had a zest for life and appreciation for the simple pleasures. She was renowned for her captivating storytelling, which was often accompanied by infectious laughter. She had an undeniable sweet tooth and a particular fondness for turtle sundaes.
Yet, above all, Rosie’s heart belonged to her three cherished granddaughters. Her role as Grandma was the cornerstone of her happiness, and her love for them knew no bounds.
Rosie’s vibrant spirit, unwavering kindness, and magnetic laughter will be dearly missed by all whose lives she touched. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know and to love her.
Rosie was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Ruth McDonald; brother, James McDonald; niece, Amy McDonald; and brother-in-law William Fillbach. She is survived by her children, Shannon (Kathy), Heather, and Carrie (Jim) Liggett; granddaughters, Dana “Rose” and Lora Radojevic, and Samantha Liggett; sister, Janice Fillbach; brother, Joseph (Jan) McDonald; sister-in-law Katie McDonald; ex-husband, William Liggett; nieces, Kara (Troy) Murphy, Leah (Jamie) Lenzendorf, Trisha Fillbach, and Shelby (Lisa) McDonald; nephew Brian McDonald; one great-niece and many great-nephews.
A celebration of Rosie’s life will be held at Integrity Celebrations Center, 2789 Browns Lake Dr. Burlington on Jan. 7, 2024. A memorial service will be held from noon until 12:30 p.m. followed by an open house celebration.
Well-wishers may visit www.integrityfunerals.net.
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