Michael Rose

MICHAEL LEE ROSE Iowa City Michael Lee Rose, 74, passed away unexpectedly, but peacefully, in Iowa City, Iowa, on Aug. 21, 2021. Mike was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., and attended Coe College in Cedar Rapids. He was an avid music lover and musician, reader, aviation buff and a wonderful comedic and dramatic storyteller. He was funny, kind, gentle and generous. Those whose lives were touched by Mike will never forget him. For over 30 years, Mike worked as a dedicated high school special education teacher at West High School. He loved and advocated not only for his students, but for the student body as a whole. In fact, in 1994, he was chosen by the graduates (only five were his actual students) to be their graduation speaker. Maybe his "wandering the halls," and getting to know the kids wasn't such a "waste of time." He deeply appreciated his family and friends, enjoyed his interactions with collaborators, and strove to give back to the community he loved. He loved to talk and was able to connect with everyone he met. Above all else, Mike Rose was authentic and one of a kind. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Murray and Ida. Mike is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Jody; daughter, Heather (Mike) LaMont; son, Joshua (Christy); granddaughters, Madison and Aliyah; sister, Judy (Paul) Seiden; in-laws, Bill, June, Jeff, Andy, Beth and Brooke; nieces and nephews, David, Adam, Andrew, Ariel, Hunter, Lauren, Grant, Elise, Laura, Lily, Lance and Joseph; many cherished friends; and his beloved cat, Ozzie. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Camp Courageous, Special Olympics or Iowa City Animal Shelter. Mike has been honored in a small private ceremony. At a later date, he will be honored with a celebration of life. Please go to www.lensingfuneral.com to share thoughts and for further details.