Kenneth Smith Rose, Sr.

Kenneth Smith Rose Sr., 78, of Cheltenham, MD, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2023. Born on January 20, 1945, in La Plata, MD, Kenneth was the youngest of Thomas Avery and Dora Irene Rose's four children. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Nina Tippett Rose, and his siblings, Thaddeus E. Rose Sr., Joanne Rogers, and Carolyn Worker.

Kenneth is survived by his children Kenneth S. Rose Jr. (Dana), Christian H. Rose (Jackie), N. Michelle Rose, Philip A. Rose (Shawni), and Matthew R. Rose (Kimberly). He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren Meghan (Chris) and Julia (Jack)., Kaulin, Nino, Gabriella, Emilia, Danny, Noah, Emily, Nathan, and Kaylie, as well as his adored great-grandchildren Irelynn, Cora, and Blake.

Throughout his life, Kenneth embarked on multiple careers, but the true essence of his being was his unwavering love for his family. He shared a close and lifelong bond with his older brother Thad. After marrying on April 2, 1965, Kenneth and Nina merged the Tippett and Rose families, embarking on a journey that touched and created many lives. Kenneth was a man of integrity who upheld his vows, promises, and word.

Kenneth graduated from La Plata High School, where he served as the President of the Future Farmers of America. He enjoyed a long and fulfilling career as a draftsman for Charles County and the State of Maryland. To support his growing family, he also took on various part-time jobs, including working as a Charles County Sheriff's Office Dispatcher, locksmith, and alarm technician for Alarm Smith, while Nina dedicated herself to being a stay-at-home mom. Kenneth even braved long nights plowing snow in his trusty blue Scout.

After retiring, Kenneth remained actively engaged by working with Alarm Smith, where he maintained close ties with the friends he had made in the community. He found joy in spending time with his Masonic Brothers at the Centennial Lodge, where he served as Worshipful Master and Treasurer. One of his proudest moments in Masonry was raising his sons Kenny and Chris to the rank of Master Masons.

At the young age of 17, Kenneth began volunteering at the Waldorf and La Plata Volunteer Fire Departments (VFD). In 1994, he resumed his volunteer service with the Brandywine VFD, becoming an active life member. Throughout his tenure, he served in firefighting and emergency medical services, as well as administrative roles such as Chaplain, Board of Directors member, Vice President, and eventually President.

Kenneth had a passion for travel, particularly to South Bethany Beach, where he and Nina would often invite extended family and their children's friends to join them. A visit to The Fisherman's Inn in Kent Narrows, MD, was a customary stop for lunch or dinner before picking up the latest Department 56 houses Nina had reserved.

Following Nina's passing in 1996, Kenneth and his mother-in-law, Eloise Tippett, looked after one another. She would make dinner for them after he accompanied her on errands and appointments, tended to her yard and house, and was always the first to lend a helping hand whenever needed. Kenneth had many hobbies and interests, but he took great pleasure in "tinkering" with his tractors and exploring small shops to find treasures for his family. He had a remarkable gift for striking up conversations with strangers he encountered during his outings.

Kenneth found immense joy in attending graduations, award ceremonies, games, competitions, tournaments, celebrations, and events with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He would watch with a beaming smile, contagious laughter, and a deep sense of pride. In his leisure time, he could often be found enjoying some of his favorite shows, including Yellowstone, American Pickers, Animal Planet, and the Antiques Roadshow. However, his most treasured moments were those spent surrounded by his large family and the countless friends and acquaintances he held dear.

Kenneth was known for his quick wit and great sense of humor, always ready with a quick or funny comment to brighten the room and bring a smile to everyone's face. He had a remarkable ability to find humor in any situation and spread laughter to those around him. In addition to his humor, Kenneth was a wise and trusted advisor. He possessed a wealth of knowledge and life experience, and his guidance and advice were sought after by family, friends, and acquaintances alike. He had a unique ability to offer practical and heartfelt advice, providing support and comfort to those in need.

Kenneth's quick wit, humor, and insightful advice will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visitation to honor Kenneth's memory will be held on Wednesday, July 5th, 2023, from 5-8pm at the Volunteer Fire Department Annexof Brandywine. Funeral services will take place on Thursday, July 6th, 2023, at 10am, also at the Volunteer Fire Department Annex of Brandywine.