Rosalie Karolyn Crowley, 78, of Rochester, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2026, just two weeks after learning she had terminal cancer. 

Born May 15, 1948, Rose lived a life overflowing with love, laughter, friendship, and a little mischief. Rose had a remarkable gift for making people feel like family. Warm, quick-witted, generous, and endlessly encouraging, she opened her home and her heart to everyone. She also gave her time freely, visiting people who had no family nearby and donating baked goods for Lent. Helping others was simply part of who she was. A talented gardener like her father, Carl, Rose filled her yard with flowers, decorations, and treasures that made people smile. 

She loved cooking, baking, garage sales, road trips, camping, Halloween, and gathering with friends and family on her deck. Rose was most proud of her two beautiful children, Mike and Kelly. In her final days, she felt the presence of her son Mike and looked forward to being reunited with him. Her daughter, Kelly, was her best friend and partner in crime. They were inseparable, always laughing together and usually up to some kind of shenanigans. Her life partner, Jerry Murphy, cherished simply being with her and was happy to follow wherever her next adventure led. Rose’s Catholic faith was woven into her life. 

She believed in helping others, welcoming people in, and making sure no one felt alone. She was, to so many, an earth angel. 

Rose was preceded in death by her husband, Michael James Crowley; her son, Michael Shawn Crowley; her parents, Carl and Grace Busse; and her siblings, Mona Ott, Rick, Mike, Dennis, and Clete Busse. 

She is survived by her daughter, Kelly Crowley (Matt Magruder); stepsons Michael Zapp (Gabbi) and Brian Murphy (Steve); stepdaughter Jennifer Murphy (Marco); granddaughters Courtney Knutson (Erik) and Chelsey Wheeler (Kyle); great-grandchildren Bennett, Drake, Skyler, Nora, and Bowie Rose; sisters-in-law Pat Busse and Janet Busse; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who became family. 

Rose will be remembered for her huge heart, infectious humor, unwavering faith, and the way she made everyone feel loved and at home. Her life, like her garden, was colorful, abundant, and full of love. 

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, August 28, 2026, at Pax Christi Catholic Church. A visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, August 27, 2026, in the River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home in Rochester and one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday.

Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com.