Bertha (Bea) Rosch was born on February 6, 1922; she died in her sleep in her home of 66 years on February 7, 2019. She lived a rich, full life, having seen her family prosper and grow and she was much loved by her extended family and many friends for her persistent optimism, kindness, generosity, and warmth. She is survived by her two sons Dr. Elliott Rosch of New York, and Joel Rosch PhD (Carol Vatz, PhD) of Raleigh NC; grand children Anna Rosch PsyD, (Isaac Wolf) of Washington DC, and Jacob Rosch, MPP (Kennan Cepa) of Philadelphia. She lived to see two great grandchildren, Alice Rosch and Beatrice Wolf of Washington DC. She is predeceased by her parents Louis and Ruth Horowitz, her brother Samuel Horowitz, and daughter in law Alice Lepie. Bea grew up in the Bronx where her parents ran a clothing store near Arthur Avenue. Her early life revolved around her mother’s close extended family. Bea helped care for her maternal Grandmother who lived with Ruth and Louis. Various members of Ruth’s family lived off and on with the Horowitz’s and Louis helped most of them start their own stores just as Ruth’s older siblings had helped them start their store. Some of the happiest times in Bea’s life were spent in Long Beach where her mother, Ruth, and younger sister, Ethel, bought a summer home for the extended families to live together every summer for almost 30 years. Children and grandchildren formed ties that would last for decades, and cousins became more like brothers and sisters. Judaism was always at the center of Bea’s life. She attended New York Public Schools as well as Jewish Schools that focused on Yiddish and Jewish culture. Throughout her life she kept a kosher home, lit Friday night candles, and instilled a Jewish identity in her children. She was active in Jewish causes, especially Hadassah. Her life changed when she met the love of her life, Maurice Rosch, just prior to World War II. After he finished his distinguished military service, Maurice and Bea were married for almost 70 years. Her two sons, her aging parents, and her home became the main focus of Bea’s energies. As empty nesters, Bea and Maurice traveled the world. While Bea learned to play tennis and golf and spent time in Florida, she was available on a moment’s notice to help out with her grandchildren in Raleigh. The family wants to thank Cathy, Lula, Delores and Teresa who cared for both Maurice and Bea in their declining years. These women allowed Bea to remain in her home and age with dignity.
In lieu of flowers please make a contribution to a charity of your choice.
Leave a Condolence