Rose (Rosie) Cecchini

Rosie was born in Ishpeming on February 4, 1943. The daughter of Nicholas Donato and Evelyn (Matheson) Donato. She attended school in Ishpeming and married her husband of 64 years Dione (Chick) Cecchini, on December 31, 1960.

Rosie came from a large family of 4 girls and 9 boys. There was never a quiet moment, so it made sense for her to have her own big family of 5 girls.

A dedicated wife, mother and grandmother, Rosie enjoyed cooking amazing Italian and Swedish foods and desserts, passing on her unique cooking styles to her daughters as well as a grandson who loved making several of his specialties for her. She enjoyed spending time at two of her favorite getaways, the Lodge on the Escanaba River and the Dead River Basin with all the family that came up to visit every summer creating memories that she cherished. She enjoyed being surrounded by her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Nothing brought her more joy than hearing the laughter of her family and listening to music played by her beloved husband Dione who she fondly referred to as Chickie. She had a unique relationship with all her children and grandchildren that made them feel so special. Rosie loved the holidays and enjoyed decorating and filling the house with smells of fabulous baked goods, she made every moment special and warm. Rosie also had a few other pastimes including crocheting, sewing, doing puzzles and playing bingo.

Over the years Rosie has had many amazing adventures visiting with her daughters in places in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Nevada, New Mexico, Ohio, Texas, Utah, & Wisconsin. She also traveled abroad to Mexico, and Bolivia.

Rosie was a compassionate and kind soul, she helped everyone and anyone. She never said no to someone in need. Rosie had deep faith and was a true believer in her Lord and Savior Jesus. She attended Father’s Heart Ministries regularly and loved the people and community there.

She will be greatly missed and loved by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Rosie is survived by her husband Dione, her 5 daughters, Teri (Lonnie) Tonge, Diane (Ray Inscoe) Cecchini, Linda (Bob) Nault, Margo (Sonny) Reschka, and Mary (Lou) Solorzano. Two brothers, Ralph (Helen) Donato and Rocky (Janet) Donato. Eleven Grandchildren Carly, Dion, Devin, Colin, Victoria, Brett, Brad, Ron, Meghen, Louie and Mario. She also had 15 great granddaughters and 9 great grandsons.

She was preceded in death by her infant daughter Dawn Lynn, parents Nick and Eve Donato, in-laws Ida and Bill Norman and Mario and Norah Cecchini. Seven brothers, Victor, Art, David, Danny, Tony, Nick Jr, and Jimmy and three sisters, Mary Lou, Stella & Irene.

A private family service will be held at Bjork and Zhulkie Funeral Home on Wednesday October 22, 2025 at 11:00AM with Pastor Renee Grochowski officiating. A public visitation will follow from 12:00PM until 2:00PM. Rose’s family invites everyone to continue celebrating her life at Congress Pizza following the visitation, starting at 3:00PM.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Lake Superior Life Care & Hospice, UP Home Health & Hospice, or Alger-Marquette Community Action (Meals on Wheels).

Rosie’s obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.