Rosetta Menard

Longtime Wasilla resident Rosetta “Rose” Menard, 76, died in her home on Dec. 3 after courageous eight-year battle with cancer.

A service will be held today at Abundant Life Church, 825 Lucas Road in Wasilla. Viewing is scheduled for 10 a.m., with the service beginning at 11 a.m. Pastor Rick Rector will officiate. Rose will be laid to rest immediately after the service at the Palmer Pioneer Cemetery. Pallbearers include Danny Hebert, Jay Suire, Patrick Richard, Billy Houck, Scott Markle, Joseph Hebert, Jerrid Palmatier and David Mark Hebert.

Rose was born in Forked Island, La., on April 2, 1933 to Mayo and Louise Suire. Her husband Milton came first to Alaska to get everything settled for their family. In December 1970, Rose and her children followed, driving the Alcan Highway to a place she would forever call home.

According to her family, Rose was a true gem. People will remember her the most for her uncanny ability to be hospitable. Her door was always open with home cooking on the stove for anyone to enjoy, her specialty of gumbo will be treasured by all. She took pleasure in gardening, crafts and singing while her late husband Milton played the guitar. She was a true believer in Jesus and endeavored to serve him everyday of her life. She opened her home every Thursday morning for Bible study, and this weekly ministry lasted 14 years even to the day of her leaving this world to eternally be with the Lord. Her sense of humor was subtle and heartfelt every time it made an appearance. Her smile enriched the lives of all who were lucky enough to encounter her. She lead an extraordinary life, full of zest and her stories will stay alive in her family forever.

Rose is preceded in death by her husband, Milton Joseph Menard, and grandson, Brandon Dean McManamy.

Rose is survived by her son, Jim (Fay) Menard; daughters Shelly (Galen) Peterson, Lisa Dunlap and Tonie (Brad) Roberts; grandchildren Joshua Menard, Melody (Patrick) Ferguson, Meagan Peterson, Rachel Dunlap, Joel Peterson, Ryan Roberts, Jeremy Menard, Janae Roberts and Brandalynn Roberts; great-grandchildren Caden Ferguson and Blake Ferguson; and an extended family too numerous to name who were near and dear to her heart.