Rosella Stern

Rosella Taitch Stern passed away in her sleep on the morning of July 28, 2011. She was born in Spokane, WA, on January 9, 1914. Rosella was a star of her high school track team. After graduating, she moved to Chicago in the midst of the Great Depression and learned to drink black coffee because cream cost an extra penny. Rosella married George Stern in 1938. During their 40 years of marriage, Rosella and George lived in Evanston, IL, where they raised two daughters, Frances and Elizabeth. Later, rather than tend an empty nest, Rosella went to work as a receptionist at the Harbor Lights Clinic of the Salvation Army in Chicago. She was fascinated by the workings of the human mind, which helped her sympathize with the clients who were trying to overcome alcohol dependence. In 1997, she joined her daughter Fran in Fort Collins, CO, where she made many new friends. She is remembered fondly for her strong spirit, her great sense of humor, and her acute interest in the world around her. Over the years, she hosted many fabulous dinner parties for family and friends. She enjoyed travels to many parts of the world, and her outgoing personality and ready smile started conversations with total strangers who quickly became new friends. She is survived by her two daughters Fran (Gerry) Johnson and Liz (Vince) Brumfiel, three grandchildren Kurt (Tara) Johnson, Elizabeth Johnson (Shad Todd), Geoff Brumfiel and his fiancée Natasha Gilbert, and four great grandchildren Mia and Mattias Johnson and Elias and Solomon Todd. Her husband George preceded her in death on July 2, 1977. A celebration of life will be held in Evanston at a later date. Rosella's family requests that any contributions be sent to the Harbor Light Center, 1515 West Monroe Street, Chicago, IL 60607-2407