Sister Rose Marie Nigro, Csjp Obituary (1930

Sister Rose Marie NIGRO, CSJP, 1930 - 2015 Sister Rose Marie CSJP, a woman with an amazing joyful and generous spirit, died on March3, 2015 in Bellevue, WA. Rose Marie was born Spokane, Washington, the daughter of Margaret and Francis Nigro. Rose Marie had strong bonds with her Italian family, especially with her brother, Fr. Armand Nigro, S.J., a gifted preacher and retreat leader. She entered the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace in Bellingham, Washington in 1950 and professed final vows in 1955. Rose Marie received a B.A. in Education from Seattle University and a M.A. in Theology from Gonzaga University. Sister Rose Marie began her years of ministry as a Catholic school teacher at Queen of Angels School, Port Angeles and in California and Wenatchee. In the 1960's she served in the community's formation program as assistant novice director and postulant director. From 1968-1975 she directed adult education programs for the Seattle Archdiocese and the Diocese of Nelson, B.C. In 1976 Sister Rose Marie was elected Provincial for the Western Province of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace. In 1986 she became the Director of the FOCUS program at Gonzaga University. From 1986 to 2006 her ministry was with PeaceHealth, the healthcare system sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace. She was Vice-President for Values Integration and Organizational Development until 1994. In 1995 she moved to Longview, Washington where she was the Director of Community Ministry for PeaceHealth Lower Columbia Region, involved with a wide variety of agencies and advocacy groups. Rose Marie was also active with the Emergency Support Shelter, United Way and other non-profit organizations. Sister Rose Marie approached each challenging ministry with dedication and positive energy. She also took time to enjoy her family and friends, sharing her love of life through humor, song and wonderful meals! As she said at her 60th Jubilee, "The memories that live in my heart include a loving nurturing family, a community of caring and supportive sisters, challenging and life-giving ministries, opportunities for growth and development, and fun times with friends." Sister Rose Marie retired in 2006, but continued to play an active part in the life of the Longview community for many years, where she was famous for the prime rib dinners she hosted. In 2014 She moved to St. Mary-on-the-Lake, Bellevue.. She will be deeply missed by her brother, Father Armand Nigro, S.J. , her many cousins, her community, and many, many friends. The Vigil Service is on Sunday, March 8, 2015 at 4:00 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial is on Monday, March 9 at 10:30 a.m. Both services are at St. Mary-on-the-Lake, Bellevue. Burial will be at 2:00 p.m. at Holyrood Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace Retirement Fund, PO Box 248, Bellevue, WA 98009. Hoffner Fisher & Harvey Guestbook at harveyfuneral.com