Rose Ann "Neri" Unger

Rose Ann (Neri) Unger, a devoted wife, cherished mother, and the radiant center of her family, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was 89 years old.

Born Rose Ann (Neri) on August 3, 1936, she was a woman of grace, beauty, and vitality. A proud graduate of Santa Cruz High School and San Jose State University, she possessed a charm and poise that led her to be crowned "Miss Santa Cruz," a title that captured her natural beauty and vibrant personality.

Her life's great romance began on the sands of Santa Cruz. While playing volleyball on the beach, Rose met Eugene "Gene" Unger. It was love at first sight. Little did they know at that moment on the sand that they were both students at San Jose State University. That serendipitous meeting sparked a loving partnership that would span seven decades.

Rose and Gene married in 1956, establishing their first home in Santa Clara before moving to Los Gatos in 1969. It was in this cherished family home-which remains in the family today-that Rose and Gene raised their three children, creating a sanctuary filled with faith, laughter, and tradition.

An amazing Italian cook and baker extraordinaire, Rose made her kitchen the true heart of the home. Family and friends flocked to her table, drawn not only by her delicious recipes but by her extraordinary warmth. As a gracious hostess, she ensured that everyone invited into her home felt wrapped in hospitality and love.

A woman of profound and unwavering conviction, Rose was a dedicated member of Calvary Church in Los Gatos, where she taught Sunday school with Gene and was a devoted member of women's bible studies for decades. Her Christian faith was the compass of her life, guiding her actions and nurturing her community.

Rose was also a woman of action and a passionate sports fan. An active tennis player, she brought the same spirit of joy to the court that she did to her daily life. She was a devoted fan of the San Francisco Giants and 49ers, attending many games over the years and rarely missing the televised games at home. She particularly cherished the tradition of traveling to Arizona to cheer on the Giants during Spring Training seasons.

To her family, she was simply the center of their world. Rose is survived by her devoted husband of 69 years, Gene, and her three loving children, Dana (Unger) Evan, Scott (Carrie), and Brian (Rebecca), all of whom miss her tremendously.

Rose's legacy of love continues through her twelve grandchildren: Christopher (Megan), Ryan, Amato (Mia), Kayla (Trey) Miller, Allison (Connor) Oneal, Lily, Nick, Madelyn (Kenneth) Bowling, Colten, Olivia, Abigail, and Nehemiah; and her great-grandchildren: Molly, Robby, and Amato. She was also loved dearly by her nephews, nieces, and cousins.

She is also survived by her sister, Inez (Neri) Ostrander. She was predeceased by her brothers, Joseph Neri and Thomas Neri.

Rose Ann (Neri) Unger lived a life of boundless generosity and grace. While she will be deeply missed, the warmth of her love and the strength of her faith have left an everlasting imprint on the hearts of everyone she touched.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are welcome to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America or The American Cancer Society in Rose's name.