Rose Walker

WALKER, Rose Marie, the epitome of grace and elegance, passed away on Friday, April 26, 2024, at her home in Flushing, Michigan. She was 96 years old.

Born December 15, 1927, to William and Helen Ferkany at the Old Women's Hospital in Flint, Michigan, Rose's journey was one of resilience, ambition, and love for her family.  

Rose's early years on Corunna Road in Flint shaped her into a natural leader. From her days at Zimmerman Elementary School, where she was elected Class President, to her time at Flint Tech High School, where she served as Vice President of her class, Rose displayed remarkable determination and leadership skills. In 1944, breaking societal norms, she embarked on a groundbreaking career path, working as a secretary at Flint Fireproof Furniture and Storage. Little did she know at the time, but this would be the beginning of a remarkable career that spanned nearly seven decades, a testament to her pioneering spirit.

On July 15, 1950, Rose married Roy E. Walker, at the First Presbyterian Church in Flint. Together, they raised their children, Scott and Suzanne, with a strong emphasis on hard work and values. Roy and Rose always prioritized spending time together as a family, with their annual summer trip to Frankfort, Michigan being a long-lasting family favorite.

Following Roy's passing in 1978, and with her children growing older, Rose focused all her energy into her career, first at Pierce Furniture and later at Oscar Rau of Frankenmuth, allowing her to become an esteemed interior designer and buyer of home furnishings. Her dedication to her work was remarkable, and she took pride in being able to enhance the lives and spaces of those she served. As a leader in her field, Rose adorned many prominent Flint homes and businesses, including 6 area funeral homes, with her timeless designs. She served as a role model for aspiring designers, and served as President of the Eastern Michigan Chapter of the Interior Design Society, the Zonta Club of Flint, and the Flint Federation of Women’s Clubs, leaving an indelible mark on her community.

Rose's commitment to excellence extended beyond her professional endeavors. Her impeccable appearance and meticulous attention to detail reflected her belief in the importance of making a positive impression. She took pride in her appearance, maintaining a standing hair appointment every Thursday and never compromising on her signature red lipstick and nail polish.

Her attention to detail was a characteristic of hers that extended to her daily routines. Despite her advancing age, Rose insisted on maintaining a spotless car, both inside and out, ensuring that every journey was undertaken in comfort and style. At the age of 92, she made the practical decision to relinquish the driver's seat, opting instead to be chauffeured around by family, a transition that suited her well.

While she may not have been the stereotypical grandma who spent her days baking cookies, Rose had her own unique way of delighting her family. Her famous candy cupboard was a treasure trove of sweet delights, always stocked with an array of treats including Hershey's, Werther's, Almond Joy, and more. For her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, visiting Grandma Rose meant indulging in these sugary delights, creating cherished memories that would last a lifetime.

Among her family, Rose was renowned for her fondness for fresh money. Even if bills had been previously circulated, she would meticulously iron them and apply spray starch to ensure they retained their crispness. This peculiar yet endearing habit was a testament to Rose's meticulous nature and her desire for perfection in even the smallest details of life.

In these seemingly simple habits and routines, Rose's character shone through, revealing her unique blend of practicality, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her loved ones. Her insistence on cleanliness, her love for sweets, and her fondness for crisp bills were all part of what made her so dearly loved and remembered by her family and friends.

Rose's care for her family was unparalleled, and she leaves behind a legacy of love and wisdom. She shaped the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, instilling in them the values of integrity, perseverance, and compassion. Her elegance and poise were matched only by her kindness towards those she loved.

Rose is survived by her son, Scott Walker; daughter, Suzanne Walker Jones; grandchildren, Adam Walker and wife Caitlin, Spencer Walker, Ashley Jones, Kristin Walker, and Matthew Walker; and great-grandchildren, Lucas Fenner, Eleanor Rosemary, Henry, and Adeline Walker. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Helen Ferkany, her beloved husband, Roy E. Walker, her sister, Patricia Joanne Kuzava, and her brothers, Bill, Albert, and Edward Ferkany.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Friday, May 3, 2024 at Preferred Services (Formerly Colonial Chapel) 2417 South Saginaw Street, Flint, Rev. Sarah LaRose-Nettell officiating.  Burial will follow at Sunset Hills Cemetery.  Mrs. Walker will lie in state at Preferred Services where friends may visit 3:00 – 8:00 PM Thursday, May 2, 2024, and from 9:00 AM until the time of service Friday.