Dear Liz,
Thank you so much for such a beautiful and moving tribute.
Fran
In a message dated 3/22/2004 11:06:50 AM Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED]
writes:
>
>
> 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.
>
>
> ________________________________________________________________
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>
>
>
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