Rosemarie Rose Blakey

Rosemarie ”Rose” Blakey, 82, loving mother, grandmother and retired school teacher, passed away peacefully at home Wednesday, April 3, 2019. She fought breast cancer courageously for over twenty years.

Rosemarie Blakey, born Rosemarie Friend to Virginia Brinkman( Friend) was born and raised in Iowa.  She lived briefly in Germany and Tacoma, Washington before moving and finishing her teaching career in Albuquerque, NM where she spent the rest of her life. Rosemarie, a woman of strong faith, as well as an accomplished musician believed that music was an important way for her to strengthen her relationship with God and the church. She was a member of the Salvation Army and TOPS. She received her degree in education from Drake University in Iowa She retired from teaching in 1996 and spent most of her time volunteering with the VA or assisting those that needed help and support. She loved supporting her children and grandchildren and attended countless marching band competitions and high school band concerts.  She enjoyed long train rides to visit her family in Iowa and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a friend to many and enjoyed long chats learning about others.

She is survived by Donald Murray of Iowa, Brian Blakey of Albuquerque, Winston Paul Blakey (Gabriella), of Albuquerque; eight grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; and her extended family in Albuquerque.

A viewing will be held Tuesday,  April 9, 2019 from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the Salvation Army Church, 4301 Bryn Mawr Dr. NE, followed by a Christian funeral service and reception.