Rose Ann Wendel

Rose Ann Wendel

Rose Ann Wendel, 77, of Centerville, Ohio, passed away peacefully in Kettering, Ohio, on July 10, 2026, after a courageous journey with cancer. She was born on November 12, 1948, to Mary Ann Wendel.

Rose was known for her generous heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering commitment to serving others. A devoted member of the Bahá’í Faith, she found joy in building friendships across faith traditions and dedicated herself to fostering understanding, unity, and compassion within her community. Her life reflected her belief in the oneness of humanity, and she welcomed people from all walks of life with kindness, warmth, and respect.

Rose attended Wright State University and the University of Dayton, where she studied religion and philosophy. A gifted classical guitarist, she studied in Spain and found great joy in music throughout her life. She was a member of the Dayton Mandolin Orchestra, sharing her love of music with others. She also sang with the Voices of Bahá choir and participated in concert tours, including performances in Europe. For several years, she organized and directed a local Bahá’í choir.

Her commitment to fostering understanding among people of different faiths was reflected in her service with the Religious Public Relations Council, Church Women United, and Dayton Trialogue, where she worked tirelessly to promote interfaith friendship and cooperation.

Rose worked at the Bahá’í National Center in Wilmette, Illinois; the University of Dayton Bookstore; McCutcheon Music Studio in Centerville; and, most recently, with Driveline Retail Merchandising, serving stores throughout the Dayton area.

Rose cherished her family and friends and was happiest when encouraging, supporting, and caring for those around her. An only child, she grew up surrounded by a loving extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins. Her quiet acts of service, thoughtful generosity, and genuine love touched countless lives, especially those of children.

Throughout her journey with cancer, Rose faced each challenge with courage, grace, and faith. Even during difficult days, she continued to inspire those around her through her resilience, dignity, and concern for others. She was deeply appreciative of the compassionate care and support she received from Ohio's Hospice during the final six months of her earthly life, when she made her home with dear friends Jim and Jackie Hagan.

Rose lived at the Joseph Bernadin Residence, part of St. Leonard’s campus, for several years. She cherished her friendships and the community life there.

Rose was preceded in death by her mother, Mary Ann Wendel, and her grandparents, Anna Mary (Schmidt) Wendel and Philemon Wendel. She is survived by her beloved aunt, Martha Loper; numerous cousins; cherished friends; and members of her Bahá’í and interfaith communities, all of whom were enriched by her life and friendship.

A Bahá’í funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at Newcomer Funeral Home, 820 Miamisburg-Centerville Road, Centerville, Ohio. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 10:00 a.m. Interment will take place at Calvary Cemetery in Dayton. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance and celebration of a life devoted to love, service, and the oneness of humanity.

"I have made death a messenger of joy to thee. Wherefore dost thou grieve? I made the light to shed on thee its splendor. Why dost thou veil thyself therefrom? " ~ Bahá’u’lláh

Memorial contributions may be made in Rose's memory to Ohio's Hospice.

Those who knew Rose will remember her for the love she freely gave, the hope she inspired, and the lasting friendships she cultivated. Her life was a testament to faith in action, and her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.