Bloomington – Rosemary (Travis) Garner, 80, of Bloomington, passed away with her family by her side, December 16, 2014 at her residence.
Rosemary was born August 18, 1934, in Peoria the daughter of Dexter and Rose Dilzer Travis. Rosemary was the youngest of four children: one sister – Georgia; and two brothers – Dexter Jr. and Lorenz, all preceding her in death. Rosemary was born during hard economic times and was especially close to Georgia who, 8 years older than Rosemary, was extrordinarily loving and protective. Georgia did everything she could to soften the harsh realities of their childhood.
In 1955, Rosemary’s mother and sister plotted together to introduce her to their handsome neighbor Noble “Bo” Garner. The plotting was a success and they married on November 19, 1955 in East Peoria. Noble and Rosemary built a marriage that was a wonderful example to others: loving, respectful, based on mutual values, and filled with humor. Together, they created a happy home and raised three children who, as adults, loved spoiling them and felt blessed to be able to care for them as their health failed. Their time together on earth was ended only by Noble’s death on January 7, 2014.
Surviving are her children, Lorine (Michael) Rust, Dennis (Lara) Garner, and Jenna (Robert) Massa all of Bloomington; grandchildren, Jason “Cody” Rust, Emma Rust, and Dakota Cisco; great-grandchild, Jacey Rust; and numerous extended family members who she loved very much.
Rosemary devoted her life to her family, always putting them first, always providing unconditional love and support. She taught her family how to love, laugh, and endure during difficult times. She was a legendary cook and had a gift for making everyone feel immediately welcome in her home. After Noble’s retirement, they built a second home in Arkansas and spent a great deal of time there. Those were happy times for them and they were blessed to be able to maintain that home for many years.
In recent years, as her health declined, she stayed closer to home and was content with frequent visits from her children and grandchildren, including weekly Sunday dinners. Her family adored her and realize how blessed they were to have her as their mother, mother-in-law, and Nana. They are comforted in the knowledge she and Noble are reunited and surrounded by loved ones shining in God’s grace.
Cremation has been accorded. A memorial service will take place later this spring.
Memorials may be made to St Jude Midwest Affiliate or McLean County Humane Society.
Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Colfax is in charge of arrangements.
Condolences and tributes may be made to the family at www.duffypilsmemorialhome.com.
