Rosemary Bortko

Rosemary Manno Bortko, age 91, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of family, faith, and service that touched generations. A woman of extraordinary depth and vitality, Rosemary was a vibrant and devoted wife, a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, a sister, an educator, and community pillar whose life was defined by compassion, curiosity, and enduring kindness.

Born to Frank Manno and Frances Manno Buccheri, Rosemary was proud of her Sicilian Italian heritage and carried it with grace throughout her life. She was the eldest of three sisters and grew up in New York City, where she assisted her parents in their "Manno" upholstery business. Her early leadership was evident-Rosemary served as school president at Bayside High School in Queens, NY. Her love for science led her to pursue pre-med studies, as her passion for knowledge never waned. Rosemary was a lifelong learner, leading her to study at five universities-including Cornell, Columbia, St. John's, and the University of Pennsylvania-before ultimately earning a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Brooklyn College.

Rosemary married the love of her life, Walter Stanley Bortko, a Naval Officer and Korean War veteran, June 28, 1953. For 57 years, they journeyed side by side, their union was a model of love, partnership, and resilience. Together, they raised five children and cultivated a home rich in warmth, laughter, engaging discussions, and spirited adventures.

Her professional life was varied and impactful. As a gifted educator Rosemary taught French, World History, and Biology, at St. Mary of the Assumption High School in Elizabeth, NJ, where she also coached the debate team. Her talents extended into journalism, writing for The Citizen in Boonton Township, NJ, and as a second career Rosemary became a real estate agent, working with the Weichert Agency in Morris County, NJ. Her versatility and work ethic were unmatched.

In addition to Rosemary's professional life, she was deeply involved in civic and faith-based organizations, including the League of Women Voters of New Jersey, and the North Central Jersey Association of Realtors. Her dedication to youth development extended beyond the classroom- she volunteered as a religious education instructor at St. Pius X in Montville, NJ, and during her retirement in Bonita Springs, Florida, she committed her time to tutoring migrant children through the Catholic Charities afterschool education program. She was also actively involved in the "Respect for Life" ministry at the Church of St. Leo the Great and lent her support to the Meals on Wheels program serving the Bonita Springs community. In her later years, Rosemary was an active member of the Women's Rosary Society in Ormond Beach, Florida.

Her interests were as expansive as her heart. She held a deep appreciation for history and classical literature, and regularly subscribed to publications such as National Geographic, Reader's Digest, and Maryknoll Missionaries. Rosemary found joy in Broadway musicals, Jeopardy, and trivia nights with the Cornell University Club. Her artistic side flourished through sewing, watercolor and Indian ink painting, and short-story writing.

Rosemary's love of nature and travel took her hiking and camping through local, state, and national parks. She treasured the beach, sunsets, and the beauty of pelicans, savored Italian cuisine – mussels in white wine sauce, and ice cream for dessert. She was a spirited athlete-during her youth she enjoyed horseback riding, and figure skating, and in later years enjoyed bowling, playing tennis with the USTA Worthington Women's Team, and recreational golfing.

Above all, Rosemary was a matriarch who hosted countless family dinners and welcomed guests from all walks of life-marathon runners, missionaries, college friends, and community volunteers. Her home was a haven of hospitality and warmth.

Rosemary was predeceased by her husband Walter Stanley Bortko (April 1, 2010) and her parents Frank (April 18, 1970) and Frances (August 25, 2005). She is survived by her five children: Margaret A. Bortko (Ennis, MT), Barbara L. Bortko (Venice, FL), Nancy R.F. Bortko Miller, and (Merton W. Miller, Ormond Beach, FL), William E. Bortko (Clearwater, FL), and Andrea C. Bortko (Rapid City, SD); her sisters Diana Manno McCabe and (John McCabe, Bonita Springs, FL), and Valerie Manno Giroux and (James Giroux, Miami, FL). Her legacy lives on through her eight grandchildren, eighteen great-grandchildren, and a beloved circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends. Rosemary will be remembered for her unwavering love of children, gracious smile, quiet wisdom, and generous spirit.