Published by Legacy Remembers on Aug. 4, 2025.
James Bruce Rosenzweig, known fondly as 'Rosie,' took flight peacefully at home on May 12, 2025, after a fulfilling and happy life-leaving behind laughter, enduring friendships, and the aroma of something delicious in the kitchen. He was one of a kind: brilliant, quietly hilarious, and always ready with a quip or a helping hand. Born in Longview, Washington, to James "Jim" and Elizabeth "Boots" Rosenzweig, he was the boy with a book tucked under his arm-bright, inquisitive, and with a mind that seemed to file everything neatly away. That early curiosity and instinct to understand brought him to the University of Washington, where he earned both his undergraduate and MBA degrees, graduating with the latter in 1972.
After completing graduate school, Jim managed Brookside Golf Course, combining business with his natural talent and love for the game. He then spent a significant chapter of his career leading the residential property management department at Martin Smith Inc. Drawn increasingly to construction, he transitioned to a second phase of his career as a retail construction manager for rapid expansion companies-a role that matched his precision, problem-solving, and no-nonsense style. He didn't define himself by his work, but he took pride in it.
Rosie had wide-ranging interests that reflected both his curiosity and his deep connection with friends. Whether he was playing softball with the DeSoto team, skiing with the major dudes, climbing Mt. Rainier, hanging out with friends at the 'everyday theater', gathering with the 'Frenchie's,' sailing, backpacking, or building a cabin on Pearl Island with friends, he threw himself wholeheartedly into the moment. He designed and tended gardens, raised kittens into beloved cats, grew vegetables to share, and continually expanded his culinary skills to craft unforgettable meals for friends and family. From handmade furniture to French classes, his pursuits were both creative and generous-and through them, he forged lasting friendships across decades. This, above all, is what he cherished most.
Rosie met Kim Larson in 1982. They married in 1985, beginning a joyful life together marked by shared adventures, travel, and thoughtful partnership. France and Mexico held special meaning for them-places they returned to often, where the rhythm of daily life felt familiar and full of flavor. They loved their life together-in making things, in seeing the world, and in the kind of happiness they shared at home.
He is survived by his beloved wife Kim; his sisters Beth Rosenzweig (Shaun Evans) and Sheri Rosenzweig (David Logan); nieces Ashley Nelson (Chris Nelson) and Leslie Logan; and family-by-choice Laura LaPlante, who became a sister in every meaningful way. Brother-in-law Kevin Larson (Michele Larson); nieces Kirsten Larson (Raphael Lopes Mateus and children Logan and Sophia) and Kelly Hong (David Hong).
A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the home of Beth and Shaun. We'll gather to share stories, enjoy great food, and smile the way Rosie always made us smile.
We miss him, and yet his presence lingers-in stories, flavors, laughter, and the moments he made matter.
In honor of Rosie's life and legacy, donations may be made to the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. Donate at
https://www.fredhutch.org › donate