Rose A. Fidel

May 19, 1924 ~ May 12, 2020
Rose A. Fidel passed away peacefully on May 12, 2020 at Elizabeth Seton Residence in Wellesley Hills, Mass. Born in Cleveland, Ohio on May 19, 1924, she was the daughter of Anton and Antonia (Penko) Fidel. Ms. Fidel is a graduate of Geneva High School, Geneva, OH, Notre Dame College of Cleveland where she received her Bachelors degree and Smith College School for Social Work, earning a Masters degree.
Before pursuing a career in social work, Rose held various jobs, including long distance telephone operator in Cleveland and a brief career as a teacher in Alaska in the early 1950’s, before Alaska became a state. After receiving her degrees she began her career at St. Vincent Charity Hospital Cleveland and consequently worked in several states over the years as a medical and psychiatric social worker. After settling in Holliston, MA in 1969, she worked at Newton Wellesley Hospital, Newton MA until she retired in 1987.
Rose enjoyed traveling and engaging in several craft projects. She made jams, jellies and marzipan. Her marzipan would be requested for several wedding receptions and other social events. She was a member of Crossroads Community Church in Framingham, MA.
Rose is survived by nieces, Mary J. Sidley of Madison, OH, Liz Wayman of Unionville, OH, Tammy (Dave) Gabor of Madison, Ann (Rick) Whaley of Castle Rock, CO and nephew Tom (Laura) Fidel of Unionville. She is preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Josephine Fidel Sidley, Mary Fidel; brothers Anthony Fidel, James Fidel and Louis Fidel; and nephews, Louis Fidel Jr. and James R. Fidel.
Rose’s family wishes to thank the staff at Elizabeth Seton Residence and her friends and neighbors that have helped her during the past few years. Contributions in Rose’s name may be made to Notre Dame College of Cleveland, 4545 College Road, South Euclid, OH 44121; or Smith College School for Social Work, 23 West Street, Northampton, MA 01063.
Private Family Burial will take place at Fairview Cemetery in Madison, OH. The Behm Family Funeral home of Madison, OH and Chesmore Funeral Home of Holliston, MA are assisting the family at this time. Online obituary and condolences may be viewed at www.behmfuneral.com
Our family lived next door to Rose and Mary for many years and they were a big part of the lives of everyone in our whole neighborhood. From letting my brother “help” them in their garden to letting the neighborhood girls play “grocery store” in their kitchen (including taking everything out of their cupboards!) they were patient and loving with all of us. We’re very sorry for your loss of Rose… as we were with Mary. Our deepest condolences to your family. The Paynes
This is Sarah Deschenes. My condolences to your family concerning your loss. I considered Rose an “adopted grandma” to me. I grew up with her as a neighbor and didn't have any biological grandparents of my own who were still alive. Rose would hold an annual Halloween party at her home with hot apple cider and homemade donuts. She was my own personal Easter Bunny until I was about 23 year-old. My family and I were able to visit her at Elizabeth Seton a couple of times, which is wonderful to remember. She was a cherished part of my family's life. Again, I'm very sorry for your loss.
Thank you very much for your kind words. I do remember Rose and Mary mentioning you and your family. I know they enjoyed being your neighbors. I can imagine playing “grocery store” in their house was fun. They had some very neat stuff in that kitchen. Mary Sidley
Thank you for your kind words. I know the Halloween party at Rose and Mary's was a big hit in the neighborhood. It was a tradition that lasted at least 25 years (I think). Easter could be fun with Rose. I recall being there some Easter's and we would have an impromptu Easter egg hunt. You never knew where eggs would be hidden. Thank you also for visiting Rose at E. Seton. I know she appreciated it. Mary Sidley
We love and miss you dearly, Rose. Thank you for all your love and light. Rest In Peace.