Arlene M. Rose (Collins), 91, of Endicott NY, passed away on March 19, 2017 at Ideal Nursing Home of apparent complications from a few strokes. She was predeceased by her husband of 60 years, Joseph R. Rose (2007); her brothers Richard and Francis Collins; her sister Virginia Ford; and her step-granddaughter Shari Scolpino (Swackhammer). She is survived by her children: Kathleen Swackhammer (Harry Sr), Candor NY; Terry Rose (Leslie), Liverpool NY; Joseph F. Rose (Jim Williams), Gasport NY; five grandchildren: Michael Howrilka (Jane), S. Portland ME; Ryan Root, Bayonne NJ; Tim Rose, Endicott NY; Dan Rose (Kelly), Oswego NY; Amy Lestage-Lord (Michael), Pembroke, MA; four step-grandchildren: Harry Swackhammer Jr (Pam Smith); Mark Swackhammer (Donna), both of Endicott NY; Craig Swackhammer (Kasey), Prosper TX; Kris Swackhammer (Laura), Boylston MA; six great-grandchildren: Sebastian, Sydney, and Ellie Rose, Morgan and Owen Lestage, and Edwin Lord; seven step great-grandchildren; two step great great-grandaughters; one sister: Wanda Doty; several nieces and nephews; and one special friend who visited her or called her at least once a week for the 6 plus years that mom resided at Ideal, Pat Boehlert. Thanks Pat for being such a great friend to our mother. You are an angel in disguise. Also many thanks to the staff at Ideal Nursing Home, both Daffodil and Lily Courts. You folks gave our mom wonderful care. Mom worked as a school crossing guard in the UE district, West Corners School for 20 plus years, retiring in 1987. Mom never golfed before meeting our dad, but dad taught her how to play the game. She went on to accomplish getting a hole in one and becoming one of En-Joie's Ladies' Association Club Champions in 1988. She also belonged to the very prestigious 4-5 Club Matches from 1969 through 1994 which is only open to those women with low handicaps. Dad was a fine teacher and mom was a good student. At the end of each round of golf, at the tee of the last hole, you could hear our mom yell out "It's the beer hole!" in anticipation of ordering a beer at the club house once she completed her game. In the nursing home, she always was watching the Golf Channel as she continued to love the sport.

Published in Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin from Mar. 23 to Mar. 25, 2017