Some people are able to make a good and deep impression on a neighborhood in less time than others.
Rosemarie (Charles) Simonis was born in Haiti and came to Philadelphia (and to greater freedom, safety and opportunities) with her parents. She studied here, grew up to join the Peace Corps and than became a teacher. When she found true love, he was a sophisticated French man who made her his bride and Philadelphia his home. Thirteen years ago she took a teaching job at St. Francis De Sales School. Through teaching and volunteering she fell in love with University City. Eric, Rosemarie and daughter Lorraine (now in 6th grade) moved onto Windsor Avenue and became active in many ways. When they weren't working together on projects, they enabled each other to do good independently. Eric guides and trains Alter Servers, and Rosemarie was active in the Legion of Mary and other organizations The Simonis family was recently featured in a UC Review article about HOST for HOSPITALS (mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]). They helped host a mother and daughter who came here from Haiti, for cancer treatment at CHOP. They were generous with their time and home, and helped Windsor Avenue transform into a French speaking island of respite for the family in need. Rosemarie and Eric helped many neighbors to learn some French. They tutored school children and conversed with adults who were game to practice the language. The SImonis family is famous for their elegant outfits. Rosemarie made many of the clothes that she and Lorraine wore and decorated their hats with ribbons and flowers. It was always a pleasure to meet up with Rosemarie on the sidewalk. She was charming and graceful, elegant but petite. She would share recipes, sewing tips, ideas to improve a child's education. Her accent was a delightful blend of Philadelphia, the islands and France. She fought her cancer valiantly. Hospice care allowed her to pass away at home. Many neighbors donated what the could. Trained nurses brought skills and advice, musicians brought over soothing and cheering CDs. Bakers baked and Readers read. People came from as far away as France and Madagascar to say good bye. It is hard to honor the passing of a friend, when you know you are longing to see her red hat, hear her unique pronunciation. watch her raise her child. But, there will be a Memorial Mass at St. Francis de Sales Church on Tuesday March 23rd, 2004 at 4 PM. The earlier viewing is for family. Neighbors and friends are welcome for the Mass and for a fellowship reception in the school hall, following the Mass. It is hoped that local cooks will bring Finger Foods and Desserts for the fellowship. They can be delivered before Mass. In lieu of flowers, Rosemarie's family has established a memorial fund in her memory. Contributions may be sent to the Rosemarie SImonis Memorial Fund SFDS School 917 S. 47th St Phila, PA 19143 Eric gave me permission to make this public posting. Rosemarie was homebound for the last few months and I wanted to make sure that those she touched as teacher, neighbor or friend had the chance to say goodbye to her and to wish her husband and child and other loved ones peace at this difficult time. ________________________________________________________________ The best thing to hit the Internet in years - Juno SpeedBand! Surf the Web up to FIVE TIMES FASTER! Only $14.95/ month - visit www.juno.com to sign up today! ---- You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named "UnivCity." To unsubscribe or for archive information, see <http://www.purple.com/list.html>.
