Roselle M. Hoffmaster Obituary

I am a former military lady physician and I have made a donation to Do No Harm, the documentary film. I would like to honor Dr. Roselle Hoffmaster, CAPT, US Army in the credits if her family would like that. I would love to honor another military physician and a female physician at that. If that is something her family members would appreciate, contact me at [email protected]. Jamie Glover MD, Colorado Springs CO. If not, I just want to thank you for supporting this young woman as she grew up to become a healer and a physician. The world was and is a better place because of her.

I still think of Roselle every time I pass your house (which is a lot since I drive on Newcomen Road many times a day!!). My heart hurts so much for you all.

I am really missing Roselle today - what a beautiful person and a good friend.

I knew Roselle at BAMC.

An excellent physician and a truly nice person.


Peace to her and her family.

My mother, who passed away last year, was an army nurse in WWII, and I came upon Dr. Hoffmaster's obituary while researching army medicine. You should be so proud of Dr. Hoffmaster, and I hope you are finding peace. Bless Roselle and your family. She sounds like an incredibly strong and compassionate person. Thank you for keeping her memory alive.

To Roselle's family: I'm the person on Roselle's right in the picture of her standing on the mountain with a few of her many friends. I've come to this guestbook several times over the years but have never commented before. I'm commenting now to say that I think of Roselle often and grieve. I hadn't seen her since 1996, but I grieved when I learned of her passing in 2007 and I continue to grieve. Roselle made a deep impression on me. I remember her brilliance and self-discipline. (I remember her going jogging at hours when everyone else in our dorm was slouching around in our pajamas.) I can still see Roselle's smile clearly and I remember her consistently positive outlook. Despite her hectic course schedule and lab work, she was always patient with others and kind to everyone. I remember Roselle's ethics, her strength of character, and her deep commitment to her beliefs. She had so many exceptional qualities and yet others never seemed to resent her gifts, possibly because she was so kind. There is no one whom I could possibly be prouder to call a friend. Please accept my deepest condolences.

In memory and honor of Capt (Dr) Roselle Hoffmaster. I will forever be grateful for her service and sacrifice for this country.

I am making a donation today to wounded warriors in honor of and memorial too Roselle Hoffmaster MD. You are missed.

R.I.P. CAP. Roselle M. Hoffmaster
Those who give their lives for the freedom of others are exceptional people in the eye of God. That is why they deserve to be there with Him.Live good there in heaven. You will not be forgotten.

To the family and friends of Capt. (Dr.) Roselle M. Hoffmaster:
Please accept my remembrance of Roselle on the anniversary of her passing and know that she will never be forgotten.

To the family and friends of Capt. (Dr.) Roselle M. Hoffmaster:
Remembering Roselle on the anniversary of her passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

god has her in heaven she was a sweet angel and still is.

former sargent royal austrlian army
apatrick zamora [email protected]

Condolences ........ worked with her while she was a teenager. Lovely caring person. So sorry!

It' been two year sence america learned about your ultimat sacfice. Life is a wounderfull gift and you gave that gift to America. I want to Thank You Roselle and your family for the gift of freedom.

To the family of Capt. (Dr.) Roselle M. Hoffmaster:
Roselle gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

A salute to CPT Roselle Hoffmaster. Her death, coming so soon after we arrived in country that tour, really affected me. I just wanted her family to know that she's still thought of and honored by members of her unit, even by folks who didn't personally know her.

Your sacrifice is both mourned and appreciated.

SSG McDonald, U.S. Army (Ret.)

We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families at this time. This is a Nonprofit Organization to honor are Soldiers!
FREE OIL ON CANVAS PAINTING OF THIS HERO. COMPLETE FORM AT WWW.HEROPAINTINGS.COM
Please contact us! Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com. If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely,
Kenna

Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.

I did not know Roselle, but I am remembering
her service. She is my hero. !

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Other Side

i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.

can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.

i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side

the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)

“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008


The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol



Sincerely,

Deb Estep
Twinsburg, Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB

Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55

Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Capt Hoffmaster!

Thank you, Capt. Hoffmaster,

You were an asset to the military and you will be missed.

Thank you for your selfless service and you ultimate sacrifice.

May God hold you in His strong hand.

William McDonald
U.S. Army, Retired

I was reviewing those who have given so much for America in the past year. Roselle certainly was a servant: a doctor for the military, in Iraq, and then to depart this life and sacrificing years of life. I wanted to honor her life, memory, and service. I will be including her name in our church bulletin this Sunday, as one who represents all those we remember with gratitude for service to the nation. God be with you.

Please accept my deepest sympathies. I only ran one season of cross-country with Roselle at Smith College, but she made a lasting impression. She always smiled, was happy and upbeat, and was a great role model for a first year student.

I just read of Roselle's passing in my Smith magazine. I am terribly sorry to hear the news. I still remember Roselle clearly from Hubbard House. I remember her talking about hiking, Gordon, medical school, and I recall her not always smiling... even when she was studying! She was one of the hardest workers I ever met.I really came to admire her in the year that I lived in Hubbard. She was a wonderful caring person who will be missed by all who knew her.

My heart goes out to you (her family) - I am very sorry for your loss.

I came across the story of your loved one on the Internet. I never actually met Roselle, but I can tell she was fabulous- a true hero. My heart goes out to all of you. She touched so many lives in her short time. She's such an inspiration to women everywhere- an intellect and a healer :)

To the Hoffmaster family,
Thank you for sharing Roselle with the Army! I had the opportunity to be her patient while she was on staff in the Internal Medicine Clinic at BAMC and was thrilled with the personal care and kindness she showed toward me. She was one of the finest physicians I've ever had the opportunity to know. She was humble yet knowledgeable and always willing to find a way to make things happen. I will never forget her gentle touch, huge heart and endless ability to listen. She was a gem and will be missed!

To the family of Dr. Hoffmaster

Please know that Roselle is in my thoughts and prayers. My gratitude for all she and your family have sacrificed. I hope your pain will be replaced with lovely memories.

What a brave Soldier and a beautiful soul. The world lost an amazing Doctor and wonderful woman.

She was an amazing doctor and a friend to all soldiers under her. She will be sorely missed as a doctor, as a warrior and as a friend. Thanks for everthing Doc.
Spc. Smith

The Milton family would like to convey our deepest sympathy for the lost of our hero, Capt Roselle Hoffmaster, may God bless the family of Capt Hoffmaster.

My heartfelt sympathy to the Hoffmaster family in the loss of Roselle. I did not know Roselle, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers. My heart was touched by the many wonderful/beautiful things written about you and from the moving tribute. Roselle you are my hero and you will NEVER be forgotten.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom

"To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~

Roselle touched the lives of many soldiers in a very special way. I served proudly with Roselle and will miss her very much... she is a special doctor who will be greatly missed by all of us. She was a good friend I knew for too short a time. My heart goes out to Gordon and her family and all those who knew and loved her.

To the Family and Friends of this Soldier:
I will stand in grief with this soldier's family to honor him. For every fallen HERO there is a bright star that shines in the evening sky to remind us of the cherished gift we were given – even if for too short a time.
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courageous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. I wish I never found myself in a position to have to sign another guestbook for the rest of my life, but I promised Brent that neither he nor any like him would be forgotten and so I will continue until the day there is no longer the need.
We lost our son SFC Brent A. Adams on 12/1/05 and it seems like yesterday. I wish so badly there were things I could say to you right now to make the pain you are feeling go away, but I know first hand there simply are no words that will bring you the comfort and peace your heart aches for. Just know that you are not alone. My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you all as you go through this tragedy moment by moment and as you mourn this loss.
We don't know each other, will probably never meet, but will forever be united in the loss of our Heroes. We have, unfortunately joined a group none of us wanted to join, an ever-growing group of families in this situation. May God grant you peace and strength to get through this and be able once again to smile at a memory rather than have only the tears that flow so easily now. To be so proud of your loved one and so saddened at the same time is a mix of emotions very difficult to deal with as our hearts both burst with pride and pain together.
I am sorry that I never knew your soldier personally. While they can never be replaced, neither will they ever be forgotten. You must trust that sometime, someday the loving memories you have will help to sustain you and help you go on. This courageous soldier will forever be your Angel watching over you all for the rest of your lives. It's what brings me some measure of peace and comfort and I hope it will you as well.
To her family and friends in pain, I offer this comfort: When you find yourself in that dark sorrowful place, think not only of how you will miss her, but instead recall the years, days, hours and minutes gifted to you by her presence. The one thing that cannot be taken from you is your wonderful memories that now will mean more than ever.
If you ever want to talk, I'm only an e:mail away and would love for you to tell me more about your Hero.
God Bless this soldier and family who gave all and God Bless legacy.com for setting up this site where families can so quickly share their condolences and prayers with others like themselves.
Proud Parents of SFC Brent A. Adams, KIA, 12/1/05, Ramadi, Iraq
Pam and Bill Adams, Lancaster, PA

In loving memory of a beautiful soldier and doctor. You were a blessing and amazing woman in life. Your in a beautiful heaven full of life surrounded by love and peace. sincerely elizabeth zahller soldier angels support team

We care and share your sorrow and pride.

I met Roselle at a trauma training course in San Antonio, just prior to our deployment. I was struck by how eager she was to learn, how she would ask all the right questions, and how engaged she was in the training. We talked about how the Army decided to send her to an operational slot with the 10th MTN, but she seemed to take it all in stride. Even though our meeting was brief, her impression has last a living memory on my heart. I pray for her family and friends that they may be at peace. I'm am stationed in Hawaii but currently serving a 15 month tour in Baghdad. Please keep all of our Service Members in your prayers.

(BAMC '03-,07) I remember Dr. Hoffmaster as being a physician who always showed the greatest concern for her patients. She maintained a calm demeanor at all times and was a doctor who all the nurses, myself included, looked up to and knew we could count on. To the family of, my condolences. Know that she was a special person to many and will be missed.

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Capt (Dr.) Hoffmaster and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses her! It is especially heartbreaking to lose a fellow member of the Cleveland area. May God bless all of you!!

I was so sorry to learn of the loss of Roselle. Having known Roselle through internship and later crossing paths many times during residency at BAMC, I can say that she was an EXTREMELY exemplary physician and officer, and a wonderful person. She was the type of physician that treated EVERY patient like her own family member, no matter how late it was, how tired we were, or how much extra time it would take. She certainly did her part to "save the world," which she would half joke about; and she certainly made everywhere she was a better place. She will be missed, and her service was a great credit to the Army.

Roselle was a fine physician and a wonderful person. I had the opportunity to meet her and work with her during my fellowship in Cardiology at Brooke Army Medical Center. She impressed me with her intelligence, dedication, and compassion.

I was in total shock and saddened when I heard of this tragic loss. I knew Dr. Hoffmaster first as a nurse at BAMC. She was always kind, caring and compassionate with her patients. It was often that you would see her sitting at the bedside and talking with her patients and really “listening” to them. I new her also as a wonderful, skillful physician that took care of my father-in-law many times while admitted to BAMC. Dr. Hoffmaster always took great care of him and whenever I would see her in the hospital when I was working she would always ask how he was doing. To me that said that her caring of her patients went beyond the bedside. I will truly miss her. Our Nation has lost a great American and also a most dedicated, compassionate physician. May she rest in peace and may her family know how many people’s lives she has touched through her healing hands.

My thought and prayers are with her husband, parents and family and friends.

I was heartbroken to learn of the death of my Hubbard House housemate, Roselle. Roselle and I both spent our four years at Smith living in Hubbard House. She was a wonderful person. Smart, athletic, and a true friend. We shared countless meals and conversations. She was passionate about her studies and athletics and able to balance everything with amazing grace. She was such a joyful person that it's hard to believe that her light has been extinguished. I was not surprised to learn that she had realized her dream of becoming a doctor. I was hoping to see Roselle at our 10th reunion in May now I will never get that chance. Her death is a reminder to live for today because there might not be a tomorrow.

I was in total shock when i heard of this tragic event. My heart and prayers immediately went out to Gordon and the rest of the family. I met Roselle while in medical school- Case Western- class of 2004. We used to run together. She is just a really cool person. I am truly blessed for having had the pleasure of sharing a part of my life with her and Gordon. We used to have getogethers in med school and it was a lot of fun. She is so awesome and i know that all her friends and family know that. She will be truly missed. If there is ever anything that i could do, please do not hesitate to contact me. To Gordon and family, be strong. God Bless.

I've been out of the country until early this morning and just received the news. Roselle and I were roommates for two years at Hubbard. Everything you've all said is echoed between the entries and in my own heart. Roselle's phenomenal mind was paired with an artist's hand, a poets sentiments, limitless compassion and a shining spirit. Gordon, I'm so sorry - I remember when she met you. Her heart grew even brighter, her smile even wider, and she even became smittenly inarticulate when describing you - quite a rarity. To Roselle's family - you are all in my hearts. She cherished you so deeply. Roselle, thank you for challenging me, loving me, laughing and crying with me, for those rare late night giggles and for all that you've given us.
Love,
Heather

I lived in Roselle's house at Smith during my junior year and her senior year. She was a true role model, the kind of person I aspire to be: kind, compassionate, selfless, calm, gentle, non-judgmental, and extremely intelligent. I am a veterinarian and it so often seems that, at least in the animal world, the gentlest, sweetest souls live the shortest lives. I don't know why this happens; perhaps they touch our world more deeply in their short time than most of us could hope to do in a long lifetime. My deepest sympathy to her family and all of her friends.

There is nothing I can say that would addequately describe the profound sense of sadness and loss that Roselle's passing evokes. During the short time I knew her as a resident at BAMC, I was impressed by her constant upbeat attitude, intelligence, friendliness, and genuine devotion for her patients. I remember joking with her about "wanting to save the world" when she described her plans to serve as a physician for the underpriviledged and needy - but Roselle's choice fit perfectly- you could see that was the type of selfless, wonderful person she was. Her death is a great loss. Deepest condolences to her husband and family.

I had the opportunity to work with Roselle many times during her residency and my fellowship. As a resident, she made my job as a fellow virtually obsolete as she needed very little direction from me due to her vast knowledge base. She clearly was a superstar in the residency program and intellectually was way beyond her level of training. Although I did not know her outside of the hospital environment, I enjoyed working with her and will never forget her. My deepest sympathies to her loved ones.

I cannot express my sadness to hear of Roselle's death. I was lucky to live in her house at Smith. Amid the tumult of 50 young women's academic and social anxieties, Roselle was a voice of calm. I remember her ready smile, her quick mind, and especially the way she had of taking everyone's aspirations and ideas so seriously -- she really listened. Beyond a talent for science, it is that genius for paying attention that makes the very best doctors; her patients were lucky to have her. I am so grateful to have known her.

Roselle was solid gold. I met her in medical school, where we were classmates. I am so sad to learn that she has died. I will always remember her compassion, warmth, and genuine concern for others. During med school, she and her husband Gordon gave up one of their free days to help my husband and I move into our new house. That's just one example of the kind of people they are - they would roll up their sleeves for you anytime. Gordon, Curt and I are so very sorry.

Roselle and I met attending Downingtown Senior High School in Pennsylvania. We shared many classes together and had a similar friend circle. My brother also dated her sister Mary. I was always impressed with how dedicated Roselle was to her class work. She always had a smile on her face and was kind to everyone with whom she interacted. After graduating we lost contact with each other. I now work at Smith College which is how I learned of Roselle's death. This has been a reminder of how much we must cherrish life. I was blessed to know Roselle for the years I did and I will carry her memory with me. I send my deepest condolences to her family. While her life was cut far too short, Roselle lived it to the fullest. Thank you for all you gave us!

Roselle's path, and my own, crossed at Brooke Army Medical Center during our medical training. Years earlier, however, I knew of Roselle's work at Case Western and that she was one of the most sought after graduating medical students in the Army's HPSP program. Only after working with her, however, did I truly understand the depth of her gifts.

I am numb with this news, and am so sorry to her dear family for this loss. I am certainly a better person for having been around her at work. Her life will always serve as a model for professionalism, compassion, empathy, and selfless service.

To have such an impact, on so many people, is a beautiful testimony to her life.

I didn't know Roselle very well, but I was her and her husband's realtor in NY.Her husband called me with this tragic news and I was so sick to my stomach.She was one of the nicest people I have encountered in this field of work. Always a smile on her face and just easy going and relaxed.The news came to a real shock to me!Her family and Gordon will be in our prayers!

I just learned of Roselle's death from a colleague. I was fortunate to get to know Roselle while she was an Internal Medicine resident at Brooke Army Medical Center, and I was an infectious disease fellow. She truly was a star of the residency program. She was an outstanding physician and a thoughtful and caring person, and she will be sorely missed.

Roselle was one of my favorite housemates in Hubbard House at Smith College. I am having a hard time finding words to express how saddened I am by the news of her sudden death. While it has actually been quite a while since the last time we spoke, I have often thought of her with great fondness over the years. Roselle was one of the kindest, most gentle, most brilliant women I have ever met - her smile could light up an entire room. One of my favorite memories is of Roselle sitting at a dining table in Hubbard and telling us about her passion for medicine. She recounted, laughingly, that when she was a small child, she could be found leafing through medical books while other kids were playing. She told us that she couldn't imagine anything making her any happier than practicing medicine. I was so struck by her determination. At moments when I have doubted my own abilities to accomplish my goals, I have thought back on Roselle's resolve and it has buoyed me to continue on. I am glad that she was able to have at least some time to relish her experience as a successful doctor before being taken from us.

To the family and friends of (Dr.)Roselle Hoffmaster:
As the coach of the "rival" school, Mount Holyoke, I truly respected Roselle's dignity and poise when representing Smith's Cross Country and Track and Field teams. Mount Holyoke team members remember her
with honor and respect.

We would like to thank everyone for the beautiful rememberances, memories, and words of sympathy.

To honor Roselle's memory, we will be planting the red maple tree she always wanted in front of her house, donating a park bench at Sunfish Pond along the Appalachian Trail, and creating a memorial scholarship.

Please address contributions to "Roselle Hoffmaster Memorial Fund" and mail to:

PO Box 2
Exton, PA 19341

With Love,
Gordon & The Hoffmaster Family

God bless the family and friends of Roselle.
You will all be in our prayers.
Thank you Roselle for being such a brave hero.

(In remembrance of Cpl. Joey Cantrell 4-4-07)

Roselle & I were part of the Harrington lab at Smith. I enjoyed one visit at her home, meeting the family. What excruciating, indescribable pain. I am sick and devastated by the loss. Maybe a spirit too powerful for a long life in this world? I can feel the world shining a little less brightly without her.
However, there's no doubt, the Earth is filled with little glows from her light she left with so many of us, and will always.

I'd been thinking about Roselle for the last few days - before I got this news. I had been thinking about the Roselle I knew 12 years ago, when we lived in Hubbard House together, when we were taking Chemistry IV together, when she just kept bowling me over every day with how brilliant she was, and how patient she was with me when I'd ask to borrow her notes, or have her explain something that just seemed so baffling. I admit that I wasn't the best chemistry student, and I also admit that the only reason I even passed the class was because of Roselle's help and patience. The reason she'd been on my mind lately is because I'm now teaching college students, and I keep wondering if I'm ever going to find someone like Roselle out there, in one of my classes. The more I read about her, from her many friends and colleagues, the more I realize that I won't - she was unique in every way.

Roselle was possibly the sweetest person I've ever met, as well as the smartest. Like many have said - she had a smile for everyone and a gift for making your day just brighter and better. I am so glad that I had the opportunity to live with her, and the opportunity to work with her, and mostly - the opportunity to be her friend.

Right now I am too shocked by the news to provide sympathetic statements - they aren't coming out right now matter how many times I rewrite them. So I can just provide my memories of how amazing and wonderful she was. She will be missed, and the world has lost a truly good and brilliant doctor, and a wonderful person.

Sarah Carmichael '98

My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.

When I learned of Roselle's death, I was shocked and deeply saddened. I knew Roselle as a housemate at Smith College, and I was always amazed by her bravery, brilliance, and gentle spirit. I loved talking with her, and I felt fortunate to do so, since she was so mature, wise and kind, and never judgmental. Though I never knew her as a physician or a mother, I know that she brought her sweet, selfless nature to these roles and I cannot imagine how devastating her loss has been to her family. Roselle was a woman of remarkable intelligence, generosity, humility and passion. My prayers are with Roselle's family and friends.

there aren't words to express how deeply shocked and saddened i was to hear of roselle's passing. i was a first year at smith when roselle was a senior. we both lived in hubbard house. roselle could always be counted on for the friendliest face and biggest smile in hubbard, even during early mornings (usually when i had stayed up all night writing a paper and she was headed off for a run) and tough times like finals, though those tough times are obviously nothing compared to what she gave of herself in iraq. roselle was truly loved by everyone and it was a privilege to know her. i will never forget her support and love for everyone, regardless of our superficial differences. as a first year student, i was immensely inspired by roselle. she embodied everything i strove to be-- smart, dedicated, loyal, giving, caring, thoughtful, sincere, kind, never afraid of a challenge and generous in her spirit and heart to everything and everyone. many people have remarked on the loss of roselle, the heroine, which she most certainly was. but we have also suffered the loss of one of the most beautiful people, in every sense of the word, that i have ever known.

thank you, roselle, for everything you gave to the world. like a ripple in a pond, your spirit touches us. we are all the better for having known you.

I had the privilege of getting to know Roselle at Smith, where we lived in the same dorm. She was always sweet and kind, and willing to help, and never had a bad thing to say about anyone. I was shocked to hear of her passing, but not surprised in the least to see that she served with honor before being taken from us. Please accept my deepest condolences. The world is not the same place without her.

I will remember Roselle as the kind,compassionate,giving and very "human" being that she was. In her early days at Smith College it was clear that she was a young woman who would be successful in whatever she touched in life. She was a member of the Cross Country/ Track & Field team throughout her 4 years sharing the journey that gave our team New 8 Cross Country/ Track & Field Championships in the same year(1997)a first for Smith College. She was not a stand out athlete but rather a part of the core needed for a team to be successful. As a coach I have tremendous appreciation for these athletes as is is difficult for most to persevere and become winners without the light shining directly on them. This unselfish giving was the core of Roselle's life. She became a surgeon to help those in need and today our world is darker in her absence. The awards she received in her years at Smith and the Army are understandable given the depth of her commitment to her dreams. May those of us who knew her carry her smile and love for life with us in the difficult days ahead. My most sincere sympathy to her family,her friends and to all who loved her.
Love,

I was completely shocked when I read the news of Roselle's tragedy. I worked with Roselle during her 3 years of residency training, both as a fellow resident and later as her junior attending, and she never stopped impressing me with her incredible knowledge, dedication, compassion, and humility. She was definitely one of a kind. All of us, the Army Medical Corps, and the world in general just had an incredibly sad lost. My sympathies and prayers are with her husband and his family.

I lived with Roselle our first year at Smith College in Hubbard House. She was one of my first friends at Smith -- I liked her immediately. I always thought Roselle was brave in her endeavors and I admired the steadiness of her efforts both in academics and athletics. I loved her and am grateful to have had good times with her, such as this beautiful "Mountain Day" in the photos attached. To Gordon and her family, I think of you now and will never forget your dear Roselle.

I remember the wonderful times I had growing up with Roselle. We went though Oak Hill Elementary, 2 Girl Scout Troops, and the many days we hung out in her back yard picking through the berries and honeysuckles. She was always teaching me something about nature or art and encouraging me to try harder in subjects I found tough.

She was a wonderful friend growing up, a smart and caring person, and even though we lost touch in high school, she has always and will always remain a special person in my memories.

I lived with Roselle at Hubbard House during my final year at Smith College. We were acquaintances and I recall the handful of conversations we shared. I remember when she first started dating Gordon. It was a rule that male guests had to be escorted to the unisex bathroom. One night when I was just through brushing my teeth, Roselle walked in with Gordon and that's how I got introduced. Roselle was kind of private, so word of Gordon spread quickly, and we all wished so much that the relationship would go well for her. And it did! Reading through this guestbook, I feel her personality coming through, reflected by the words of so many who knew her. These descriptions ring so true and bring her back in my memory. My heart breaks to know that she has passed. I offer my condolences to her family and friends.

To Roselle's Family -

It has been many years since I have seen Roselle. We were friends at Oak Hill Elementary and in Scouting. Her kind, gentle spirit stays in my memory. I regret that we lost touch and wish that I could have known her as she achieved her dreams. I never doubted that she would.

I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers as you try to heal from this devastating loss. May her memory stay strong within your hearts.

With love -
Jessica (Krcek) Benson

Doctor Hoffmaster studied medicine for many years and earned her medical degree after an inordinate amount of hard work, only to die at the age of 32 well before her time when she still had much to contribute as a Doctor and a human being. I am extremely sorry. RIP.

I knew Roselle at Smith College, from the track team and biology classes. She was a lovely and enormously gifted woman. Her family, friends, and comrades in Iraq will be in my prayers.

Capt.(Dr.) Roselle M. Hoffmaster and Family:

Know in your heart that you are a true hero and will never be forgotten. All gave some, some gave all. Rest in peace. You will be missed by everyone’s life you have touched.

To the family, as the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family, friends, and all Americans for the sacrifice of one of your family members for our freedom. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May you find comfort in the loving embrace of our Heavenly Father.

Roselle was a summer student in my lab at Fox Chase Cancer Center. I was totally shocked to hear of her death. She still ranks as the best undergraduate to come through the lab.
You have my sympathy.

Sincerely

Warren Kruger

PS Here is a picture with the rest of the lab taken in 1998.

I was stunned to hear yesterday that Roselle had passed away in Iraq. When I think of Roselle, I think of kindness and laughter. Roselle was a track teammate of mine at Smith College, and I can't recall a day when she did not show up smiling and ready to give the workout her all. Roselle approached life that way - she always gave it her all! I will always have fond memories of Roselle, and I want to relay my sincerest condolences to her family and friends. She embodied all that I respect in a person - kindness, compassion, intelligence, and lots of love.

I had the honor of working with Roselle during her 3 years of residency at Brooke Army Medical Center. She was training in internal medicine and I was an ER resident. We both worked closely together for one month in the intensive care unit. I remember how soft-spoken she was. Initially I thought that she was aloof and disinterested in getting to know her colleagues. In a short time, I realized that Roselle was not only extremely bright and dedicated, but she could let loose and joke a bit too (if it didn't compromise her work!). I humbly and sincerely offer my condolences to those who knew this gentle and caring person. I feel very privileged to have known and worked with her.

It was a privilege to have known and worked with Roselle. I believe I was paired up with her as an attending for a reason. First, because they usually put a strong resident with a senior staff member (knowing some of the medicine we practice tends to be more anectdotal than evidence based), but more importantly it was just my good luck because working with Roselle helped re-energize and re-emphasize the reason that most of us chose to go into medicine. She was competent, thorough, but above all compassionate and caring. She never said no, never disparaged a colleague or other medical service, and went about her work with the utmost respect and humility. She had maturity beyond her years and the admiration of all who came in contact with her. Roselle's legacy will live on in the numerous patient's lives that she touched, the number of medical students and junior residents that she taught, and in the many colleagues who truly experienced her goodness and greatness.

I cannot adequately relay the depth of my saddness on hearing of Roselle's death. Roselle was a unique soul with a true calling to be a physician. Her amazing knowledge and selfless service to her patients were evident every day she came to work. I had the privilege of working with Roselle as the attending physician on the coronary care rotation. She was hands-down one the the very best residents I taught, mentored and learned from in my 20 years in medicine. I tried to convince her to consider a career in cardiology but was embarrassed by my own words. You see Roselle told me she had plans to go to an inner city hospital or community without adequate health resources and care for those patients who really needed her skills as a doctor. So she indeed was not interested in a "career" but rather had a divine calling to care for the sick. I thought that in the future I would hear her words coming as a spokesperson for Doctors Without Borders or the Surgeon General's Office for Public Health. We have lost a true angel on this earth. My prayers and sympathy go out to her husband, friends and her parents.

I was stunned and deeply saddened when I learned of Roselle's death today. I became friends with Roselle as a Smith College classmate and track teammate. I didn't really know her in her doctor role; I only got updates about how she was progressing though the med school process. I am so pleased, and saddened, to read how wonderfully suited she was to the profession and how respected she was by her medical peers. Her work ethic described by others is what I knew from our Smith days. Roselle truly was a gentle soul who wanted to do good and who had the talent to make a big impact. The world suffers a great loss with her death.

My deepest sympathies to Roselle's husband and family.

My deepest and heart-felt sympathies to Capt. (Dr.) Roselle Hoffmaster's husband, parents, family, and friends. This is such a terrible and grievous loss. I had the privilege of being in the same "Tuesday Morning Small Group" with Roselle through our first two years of medical school at CWRU. She was an extraordinary human being. I had served in the US Army in Desert Storm well before med school, and we would at times talk about serving in the military. I am stunned at the news of her death. She was always so thoughtful, so calm, so considerate, so compassionate, and so selfless. The world is a lesser place for the loss of her. She will be terribly missed, but always remembered, fondly and with great respect.

I was fortunate to meet Roselle in medical school. She quickly became my dear friend and buddy. Roselle was extremely kind, compassionate, gentle, and warm hearted. More than that, Roselle was a friend that I could talk to at any time - she was so busy, but never showed it. One of my favorite memories of Roselle is when she and Gordon graciously joined my sisters and I for Thanksgiving dinner in November 2002 - we laughed so much that night. Roselle looked out for all of us. One evening after clinc, she picked me up on the road when my bike chain broke. It turned out to be one of my best walks home having Roselle on my side. We love you, Roselle. Thanks so much for your light and spirit. My loving prayers for your journey, our dear Gordon, your parents, all of your friends, and our world.

To the parents and family of Roselle, I feel sadness in my heart each time I know another family has suffered a loss in these wars. I too am a Gold Star Mother and so I truly know what you are going through and what yet is ahead. I would like you to know that if you would like to talk, vent, cry or share memories that I am here for you. I have been blessed by God to be able to reach out to other parents who have gone through this same tragedy. We have a very good support group across the US so any emotional support you need is here. May God continue to heal you as you face the days and weeks ahead.

In memory of my son
Spc Harry (Buck) Winkler III
KIA November 12, 2006
Samarra, Iraq

I attended medical school at Case Western with Roselle and am deeply saddened by her death. I will always remember her as a genuinely hard-working, warm and compassionate person who was always pleasant to everyone around her. Her sacrifice is immense and my sincere condolences go out to Gordon and her family. I am so sorry for your loss.

I also had the privilege of knowing Roselle throughout her 3 years of residency training. "Brilliant" only comes close to describing the depth of her medical knowledge, and "dedicated" says nothing about the extraordinary empathy that she had for her patients. Most (if not all) of us both above and below her in training wanted to be more like her. All of medicine has lost a future leader. My deepest condolences to her family and husband, Gordon.

I still can't believe this tragic news. I knew Roselle as a brilliant, hard-working Smith College classmate and talented, caring, cross-country and track and field teammate. We spent four years together sharing science classes and running experiences. I admired Roselle's natural talents and her confident, calm, loving personality. When I learned that she was to attend medical school, I knew she would make the best kind of doctor--one who had a wonderful bedside manner as well as the "brains." I regret that I did not have the chance to see her performing this role as many of you had. She was a leader in every way and our nation has lost one of its best with the death of Roselle. She, and the cost of this war, will never be forgotten.

My sincere, heart-felt condolences go out to her family and husband, who must be going through the worst imaginable days of their lives.
Mary (Saari) Veysey SC '98

Roselle was a beautiful person. I never really had a chance to know her outside the hospital setting. She was an amazing physician who always did her best by the patients she cared for. Whenever she was on call, there was never a concern as she always knew what was happening.

She will be truly missed as a friend, daughter, wife and physician. My condolences to the family and her close friends. We will always remember her.

Roselle and I were childhood friends. Our families spent many New Years Eves together growing up. Although we had grown apart during our college years we still kept in touch periodically. Roselle was a remarkable person and would do anything for anyone. I know that she lived her dream by being a doctor. Roselle will truly be missed. All my love and deepest sympathy to Aunt Kathy, Uncle Jim, Warren, Mary and Gordon. Please let us know if there is anything we can do.

I was also in residency with Roselle at Brooke Army Medical Center. I was 2 yrs ahead of her in training, but always felt like she was smarter than me! Roselle was one of the most natural doctors I have ever seen... extremely intelligent, diligent, hard-working, caring and made it all look easy. I remember talking to Roselle as she was anticipating her move to Ft. Drum and her inevitable deployment. Having recently graduated from residency and spent a year in Iraq myself, we both thought that my experiences would be helpful for her. I told her that it would be a difficult year, but when she returned she would have a new perspective on life and be glad for the experience. I can't tell you how much I wish those words were true. Roselle will forever be a reminder to me of the price of war. I am overcome w/ sadness. We will all miss her dearly.

I first met Roselle when I was a fellow and she was an intern rotating in the CCU at Brooke Army Medical Center. She was a hard worker, a caring and professional physician, and a genuinely nice person. The Army Medical Corps has lost a great officer and doctor. My sincere condolences go out to Roselle's family.

As one of her colleagues in the emergency department, I frequently interacted with her. She was always so patient, kind, and willing to do what was in the best interest of her patients. That was her way, she often seemed to put the cares of others ahead of her own. Her untimely death is a tremendous loss to her patients, family, friends, co-workers, the Army, and our nation. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones.

I met Roselle during our residency at Brooke Army Medical Center. I will always remember her for her compassionate behavior and kind demeanor. Her tragic death has affected us all in the military medical community. It was an honor to have worked and served with her. My sincerest condolences go out to her loved ones and family.

Rest in peace Doctor Hoffmaster with our gratitude forever inscripted in our hearts.

Roselle and I weren't "hang out" kind of friends, but I dragged her out of sleep many nights in the last 2 years to see a patient in the ER, and we had a very collegial rapport. In the emergency department, your consultants can make you or break you, and I always knew that when Roselle was on call, that I could expect a friendly face and a very able and compassionate physician who would do the right thing by our patient. Her death hits us in the military medicine community very hard, and we grieve for her and her family. It was an honor to know her and to serve with her.

Roselle was an amazing person, friend and colleague. All of us are shocked and saddened not only by our own loss but by the loss of such a brilliant, dedicated doctor. The world has lost a truly wonderful woman. Words cannot express the tragedy but I hope that she has found comfort.

Roselle was truly the most sincere and gentle soul who touched the lives of those who knew her. I had the pleasure of meeting her during her days at Smith College, and then later shared time with her during our medical school years at Case Western. Roselle will be deeply missed.

I still remember her telling me of her meeting Gordon and I have alway admired the loving relationship that they shared.

My thoughts and prayers are with her family, and the love of her life, Gordon.

Roselle was a friend of mine in residency. I am shocked and saddened by her death. I want her family to know that all her friends and collegues are here for support.