Rosemary Heise, 73, of Bloomington, Illinois, formery of Waynesville, died at home surrounded by her loving family on Thursday evening, September 22, 2016.
Rosemary was born in Dayton, Ohio, February 3, 1943, the daughter of Giuseppe Gaccetta, who immigrated from Montesoro, Calabria, Italy, and Catherine Frangione Gaccetta of Erie, Pennsylvania. She was preceded in death by her parents and all of her siblings. On December 18, 1961, she married Al Wimmers with whom she had four children: David Wimmers (fiancée Bonnie Privette) Hamilton, Ohio; Christopher Wimmers, Heyworth, Illinois; Cathy (Rod) Wimmers Raunig in Washougal, Washington, and Julie (John) Wimmers Hesse, Bloomington. She adored four grandchildren—Gabrielle, Nicholas and Jackson Hesse and Jesse Raunig. She married Joris Heise on January 5, 1980, with whom she has happily spent the last 36 years.
Rosemary grew up in Dayton, Ohio, where she became a teacher of special education—a career she loved because she cared so much for persons who become "excluded." A defining moment in her life happened when she was just starting school. The teacher asked the children to say what their father did for a living; her father having died, she was mortified, and ever after showed sensitivity for people who were "different." She was especially welcoming to people in need, opening her home as much as possible for such people.
She wrote an e-novel, Benign Intent, about the Holocaust and the consequences of such exclusions. For more than 20 years she taught children with special needs in the Dayton area, in dedication to persons challenged mentally and physically. Her creativity also included designing two houses, one in Bellbrook, Ohio, and one in rural Waynesville, IL. A Master Gardener, she designed landscaping for them; the Bellbrook house won Beautification Awards twice. Rosemary learned from her mother to be masterful in needlepoint, crocheting, and sewing, using these talents to bestow gifts upon others, including often repairing a stuffed turtle for a grandchild.
She raised four children diverse and honest, two of whom have followed her into careers in education. She was a friend to all, providing finely cooked Italian food, finding and sharing laughter and personal charm wherever she lived. She cherished her grandchildren and loved spending time listening to their exploits. She was always looking for people and animals to help and care for, and passed that trait onto her family.
The family has much appreciated the help of Advocate at Home Hospice and the CNAs who have done so much. She asked for cremation and that a Celebration of Life be held to remember her beautiful life. This memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM, Friday morning, September 30, at Wesley Methodist Church 502 E Front Street, Bloomington, Illinois 61701 (www.wesley-umc.com), with a reception at the church immediately following.
