Rona Rosenbaum

1932 - 2022

The remarkable Rona Cader Rosenbaum, 89, of Lutherville, MD died on March 2 of complications of lung cancer.

She was born in Baltimore, MD on June 22, 1932. First married to the late Gordon Cader, she recently celebrated her fortieth wedding anniversary with Arthur E. Rosenbaum.

In 2014, at the age of 82, she founded the nonprofit Maryland Association for Parkinson's Support, where she served as president and chair of the board until her passing. MAPS provides free programs and essential support to thousands of those affected by Parkinson's Disease, bringing greatly needed resources to the state.

Rona was a graduate of Goucher College. Beginning in 1964, she was a longtime computer programmer and faculty member at Johns Hopkins University, working with Dr. Janet Hardy on her foundational, long-term study of teenage mothers and their children. A lifelong activist, Rona spent years advocating for a woman's right to choose and racial equality. Along with neighbors, in 1970, she helped to found and create the Mt. Washington Swimming Club, where she was treasurer. She served on the boards of numerous organizations, including The Park School, Kennedy Krieger Institute and The Glimmerglass Festival. Rona's CV does not begin to capture her impact on family, friends and the communities in which she lived: She was a brilliant advisor, organizer, strategist and constant friend, with consummate organizational skills, determination, and a charmingly no-nonsense style. She was also an opera lover; an avid supporter of Native American artists and collector of their works; and a lifelong bridge maven and member of the Hamilton Street Club.

She is survived by her husband Arthur Rosenbaum; her children Andrew Cader, Michael Cader and his wife Lisa, Anne Myers, Lisa Rosenbaum and Jeff Rosenbaum; and her grandchildren Jonah Cader, Amos Cader, Jacob Cader, Joshua Myers, Jeremy Myers, Adam Rosenbaum and Leah Rosenbaum.

The family is marking her passing in private. A celebration of her life and foundational work will be held in September, when she is scheduled to be honored by the Maryland Association for Parkinson's Support. Those wishing to honor Rona's memory are asked to contribute to MAPS to help continue her work, via PO Box 450, Brooklandville, MD 21022 or through the website: www.marylandparkinsonsupport.org