Eric N. Rose
Eric N. Rose, 72, of Onaway, died unexpectedly Tuesday, May 13, 2025. One of five children born to George and Marion (Kirkendall) Rose, he was born in Rogers City November 24, 1952, and was raised in Millersburg. He graduated in 1970 from Onaway High School where he was captain of the football team. Eric married his soulmate, best friend, and the love of his life, Rosalie Ann Robbins, at the United Methodist Church October 30, 1971.
Eric’s career with the Presque Isle County Road Commission began in 1976 when he took a job driving a county truck. He took great pride in maintaining the roads throughout the county, was eventually promoted to superintendent, and served in that capacity until his retirement in 2008. Eric’s work with the road commission was more than just a paycheck as he was committed to providing the highest standards of service to the community. During his 32-year tenure he was well-respected and well-liked for his strong work ethic and humble leadership.
Eric was a resident of the Onaway area for his entire life and actively involved in the community. He coached Little League, served as an auxiliary police officer, and was on the Onaway Fire Department. In December of 2008, after 34 years with the fire department, Eric hung up his helmet and retired from his position as chief. One of the things Eric was very passionate about was the Fourth of July fireworks. For more than 25 years he led the crews that put on the grand display of fireworks to wrap up the July Fourth celebration in Onaway.
An avid outdoorsman, Eric loved deer hunting and trout fishing. His favorite place was his deer blind and hunting property where he spent as much time as possible. He found it peaceful and relaxing to watch quietly as the deer were eating. He knew each deer and gave them names to fit their appearance and personality. He loved telling his family about his deer, always calling them by their name as if he were talking about a good friend. In addition to the hunting property, the cottage at Black Lake was also very close to Eric’s heart as so many memories with family were made there through the years. A labor of love, he continually worked on projects at the lake for his family and loved every minute of it. As luck would have it, the cottage and his hunting property weren’t far apart, allowing Eric to spend time at both each day.
Eric enjoyed afternoons on the pontoon boat with his family and watching the Detroit Tigers. He was thrilled with how well the Tigers’ have played so far and was looking forward to the rest of the season, but his favorite, by far, was football. Eric loved watching football and the Detroit Lions were his team. At game time, it was a safe bet that Eric was comfortable in “his spot” and tuned in to watch. It may be hard to believe, but Eric loved plowing snow. He plowed for numerous people, however he never wanted to be paid, although he was always willing to accept home-baked treats for his work. And though he enjoyed the couple of winters he, Rosalie, and Carolyn spent in Florida, he decided that really wasn’t for him because he couldn’t move snow! Out-of-town trips were often cut short if snow fell in Onaway so Eric could get home to clear everyone’s driveways.
Eric was a deeply loved husband, father, papa, brother, uncle, friend and neighbor. He has been a rock for many; he offered comfort, clarity and understanding. He gave sound advice, always getting his point across without judgement. A gentle giant with a tender heart, Eric was an amazing papa to Carson and his special needs grandson, Trace. Eric definitely had a way with Trace and frequently helped with his care. Their amazing bond was truly heartwarming. His role as papa extended from his own grandsons to his grand nephews and nieces who also loved him as a papa. Eric’s devotion to Rosalie and his love for her were beyond measure. As a father, he couldn’t have been prouder of Brandon and Teresa and what wonderful parents they were to his grandsons. Eric’s greatest love was for his family; they were all he ever needed.
Well-known and well-loved, Eric’s beautiful life was one of service to others. He never wanted recognition for all the things he did for others; he helped because he sincerely wanted to. He was one who could be counted on in his vocation, in his commitment to the community, and in his complete devotion to his family. He was caring, trustworthy and compassionate with the patience of a saint. Eric simply wanted to brighten lives in his days and that he surely did. Peace, generosity and humbleness permeated his being. “Eric Rose, a beacon of kindness and love, will forever reside in our hearts and his legacy will continue to inspire and guide us.”
Eric leaves his wi
Eric was preceded in death by his parents, George and Marion, and his in-laws, Glenn and Barbara Robbins.
A memorial was held at the Onaway Fire Hall last week. Those planning an expression of sympathy please consider a contribution in memory of Eric to the Onaway Fire Department. Arrangements were in care of Chagnon Funeral Home.
