A Legacy of Love: Remembering Rose Jarman

At Royal University Hospital Foundation, we are deeply honoured to remember and celebrate the remarkable life of Rose Jarman—a compassionate and generous woman whose legacy of kindness and philanthropy will forever be woven into the fabric of our community.

Rose lived a long and extraordinary life, passing away on August 31, 2024, just five days shy of her 105th birthday. Born on a homestead near Hafford, Saskatchewan in 1919, Rose witnessed over a century of change, persevering through the Great Depression and World War II. Her strength of character and unwavering spirit carried her through immense personal loss, including the passing of her beloved husband, George, and only child, Zenon. And yet, she chose to live a life defined by resilience, faith, and generosity.

Throughout her life, Rose was a proud supporter of numerous causes that reflected her deep love for community, culture, and health care. A proud member of the Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral of the Holy Trinity and the Ukrainian Women’s Association of Canada for over 80 years, Rose also held a lifelong admiration for her Ukrainian heritage. Her kitchen was always filled with the warmth of traditional dishes, and her heart, with care for others.

In 2017, Rose named Royal University Hospital Foundation as a beneficiary in her Will and made a heartfelt donation in memory of her late husband and son to our GREATE.R. Campaign in support of the Adult Emergency Department. “It is with much pride that I am able to honour the lives and legacies of my husband and son by giving to the Foundation,” she shared at the time. Her thoughtful foresight and enduring commitment to health care will help patients and medical teams for generations to come.

Whether it was walking her beloved dogs, preparing traditional meals, or dancing with the Mayor at her 100th birthday, Rose brought joy and purpose to every day. She was a friend to many, a pillar in her community, and a symbol of what it means to live a meaningful life of giving.

From all of us at RUH Foundation—thank you, Rose. Your heart, your legacy, and your belief in a healthier tomorrow will never be forgotten.

Your memory continues to inspire us every day.

Read the full 2024–2025 Annual Gratitude Report.