In Loving Memory

Verna Melba Rosenberg

Mrs. Verna Melba Rosenberg, age 97, passed away September 21, 2024 at her home in Addy, WA.  Verna was born December 6, 1926 in Blue Creek, Washington to John and Mabel (Chalmers) Seabrandt.

In 1948, Verna married the love of her life, Kenneth Rosenberg.  They spent amazing years together and loved each other dearly.  Kenneth passed in 2016.  Verna missed him terribly and has now joined him once again.

Verna was a very active member of the local community throughout her life.  Her husband, Kenneth served as a Washington State Representative.  She and their family lived in Olympia during the legislative sessions and in Addy the rest of the time.  While in Olympia, she participated as a lobbyist for various causes she felt strongly about.  Verna was meticulous with every detail when hosting dinners for dignitaries or her own family.  No detail was too small.  Verna would take on practically any challenge and would overcome any obstacle that got in her way. She did so with grace and grit!  Afterall, she was Scottish!

Verna was never one to sit still.  She always had a project to work on or a charity to assist.  She crocheted and knitted Layettes for newborn babies, mittens, scarves, and hats.  She made stuffed animals for local children.  She and Kenneth were foster parents for several children throughout the years.  Serving children in need was very important to her.  Verna donated dictionaries and school supplies through the local Grange to make sure every child had what was needed to be successful at school.  She supported the Shriner's and Prisoners of War organizations with her donations.  And in memory of her brother, Jimmy, donations were made to the Ronald McDonald House in Spokane as well.

Like many mothers of her day, she grew a large garden and canned the fruits of her labor.  Her family always had good food to eat as a result.  A family favorite was her homemade raspberry jam.  Sunday dinners were an event.  There was always chicken on the table.  Stories were shared around the table amongst the members of the family.  And there was enough food to feed the entire family for days afterwards.  She was also known for making wedding cakes.

Verna was a member of the Arden Women's Club and was a 7th Degree Member of the Grange.  She joined the Grange organization at the age of 12 and over the years served the Pamona Grange, served at the State level and finally at the National level.  Her involvement was one of her biggest accomplishments.

Verna was indeed a passionate woman…especially when it came to baseball!  She loved her Dodgers!  She was a loyal fan from their days in Brooklyn, NY till current times now in Los Angeles, CA.  Family members came across a program from a Dodgers v. Giants game in 1970 played in San Francisco.  It had been a double header. Verna wrote on the program – "Lost both and about froze to death!"

With so many activities and interests she maintained a deep faith in Jesus.  Verna started each day by reading from the "Portals of Prayer" devotional.  Family members often joined her and would discuss the topics of the day.  Her faith was a vital part of who she was.

Verna is preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, and her twin brother; husband, Kenneth Rosenberg, and by an infant daughter.  She is survived by her sons – Emil and Davis Rosenberg, daughter, Cheryl (Vaughn – deceased) Sweers, 7 grandchildren – Shellae, Melody, Scarlet, Jake, Steven, Daniel, Vaughn (Deceased); and 9 great grandchildren.

A graveside service for family and close friends was held on Monday, September 30, 2024 at the Highland Cemetery in Colville.  Danekas Funeral Chapel & Crematory have been entrusted with his care. Please visit the online memorial website and sign his guestbook at www.danekasfuneralchapel.com.