Several people in the community have been in touch with Rose's family.  Unfortunately, Rose was the sole breadwinner for herself and her disabled granddaughter and son-in-law.  (Rose raised her granddaughter as her own daughter.)  Rose's failing health left the family behind on bills and with virtually no resources.  As a result, any memorial service will have to wait for at least a couple of weeks.

Adding to the grief of losing Rose, the family is facing eviction.  Their gas is already turned off, and the landlord has given them until Monday to pay some rent.

We have established, therefore, a ROSEMARY MARGARET WALKER MEMORIAL FUND at Washington Mutual Bank, for people to make contributions for Rose's funeral arrangements and to help the family get on their feet as they deal with the loss of their Mom.

I hope I'm not out of line in suggesting that everyone who ever spent money for an hour at The Garden should consider contributing at least that same amount, to help the children who Rose cared for, and for whom she worked.  For those of you who were not clients, but simply knew Rose and loved her, a donation in recognition of how she helped so many people do what they really wanted to do would be a wonderful gesture.

The account was opened by Jack for the family, and I have agreed to provide oversight, in order to provide independent confirmation that all the funds go for the intended purpose.  YOU CAN DONATE ANONYMOUSLY at any Washington Mutual (WAMU) branch.  If you are in the habit of leaving your donation in an envelope, however, make sure it has the following written on it:

ROSEMARY MARGARET WALKER MEMORIAL FUND
WAMU Account # 8851417317

If you have any questions, please feel free to PM me.