Rosemary Helen Mead Lang, of Grand Rapids, died peacefully at home on Friday, March 9, 2018; she was 89. Her husband Richard “Dick” of nearly 65 years was by her side. Rose was born on February 24, 1929 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She attended Mercy Central School of Nursing, graduating in 1950. She is preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Henrietta Mead, her brothers, Dick Mead, and Joe Mead. She is survived by her loving husband, Dick, and 8 children: Jim (Lorie), Nancy, Jon (Nancy), Mark “Moose” (Amy), Tom (Deb), Mary Povey (Scott), Bob (Jane), Sue Nealy (Greg) and 15 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren, whom she entertained with abandon. She raised her large loving family with steadfast faith, ready laughter, true grit, unique creativity, conservatory thrift, boundless energy, kindness, strength, humor, style and grace. She never met a child she couldn’t make smile and vice versa. She is also survived by her sister, Nancy Poggi, sisters-in-law, Diane Mead Sidebotham, Mary Esch, Patricia Kunst, and many nieces and nephews. Rose njoyed entertaining at her cottage in Grand Haven, drinking manhattans, making sure all were aware of the ever present cane…, singing with her sister, Nancy, and anyone else who cared to join in. And could she ever dance! Tap on with the angels, Rose! Visitation will be Monday, March 12, 6-8:00 p.m. at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd. S.E., Grand Rapids. Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated Tuesday, March 13, 11:00 a.m. at St. Stephen Catholic Church, 720 Gladstone Dr. S.E., East Grand Rapids. Rev. Scott Nolan presiding. Interment Woodlawn Cemetery. To share a memory or sign the guestbook the family asks that you visit gerstfuneralhomes.com. In lieu of flowers, please contribute to the charity of your choice.
