Rose Theresa Collier's Obituary
Rose T. Collier, age 88, passed peacefully the morning of May 6, 2025, after a lengthy decline in her health. She is survived by her husband of nearly 62 years, C Patrick Collier, whom she said she married because he was smarter than her, and of whom she recently described as caring for her with a yeoman’s effort. Also missing her are her daughters Sara Collier, Paula Collier (Bret Atiyeh) and Erica Halbleib (Chris); her grandchildren Charlie Collier (Megan Jensen), Leo Peace, Meredith Peace, Margo Halbleib and Nadia Halbleib, and her great-grandson Viggo Collier. From her, they all learned the value of higher education, the love of books, a talent for music, an appreciation for staying active, a smart sense of humor, and the taste for a good cup of hazelnut coffee. In her younger years, she recalled bowling with friends until they laughed themselves sick, and playing tennis weekly with many dear opponents and confidants. She also was a frequent book club member and loved discussion groups, especially when they agreed with her.
Originally from Merrill, Rose studied music at UW-Milwaukee, finishing her bachelor's degree at Stevens Point Wisconsin, and received her master’s degree in Education (Reading) from UW-Oshkosh. She taught piano to hundreds of students over the span of 40 years from her home studio in Oshkosh. One of the founding members of the Oshkosh Area Music Teachers Association (OAMTA), Rose was passionate about sharing lessons learned and helping set high standards for music educators. She excelled at sight-reading, which made her in demand as an accompanist. Ironically, her sight was the first thing to go as macular degeneration took hold. Near the end, she summarized her life as quite satisfying, despite what her illnesses and aging took from her. She subscribed to the belief that “music hath charms to soothe a savage beast” and “I do the best I can with what I am dealt”.
Family, former students and friends will gather at Evergreen on May 19 at 1pm in the worship and performing arts center for a few moments of music, sweet memories and coffee.
What’s your fondest memory of Rose?
What’s a lesson you learned from Rose?
Share a story where Rose's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Rose you’ll never forget.
How did Rose make you smile?
