Phillip J. Rose, Sr.

Phillip J. Rose Sr., 68, of Topeka, died January 21, 2015 at St. Francis Hospital. Phil was born December 19, 1946 in Tonkawa, OK, to Harrison and Mary (Bradley) Rose. Phil served his country by enlisting in the United States Navy; he was honorably discharged due to medical reasons. He had a love for country music, fishing, cooking and most of all his family. Over the years Phil was a route salesman, he was also a successful used car salesman. Phil and Mary were the proud owners of several small "mom & pop" businesses including Bert & Ernies, Rosie's Café, Phil and Mary Lou's, Rose Auto Sales, Rose & Son's Trucking and most recently, Haley's Sweet Treats where Phil drove his ice cream truck up and down Topeka's city street bringing joy to many little ones. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten. Phil married his best friend Mary L. Espinoza on January 31, 1975 in Topeka, KS. She survives. Also surviving are his nine children, Christina Craig, Vince Rose, James Rose, Pete Rose, Michele Hendrix, Jeri Castagno, Angela Reha, Phil Rose, Jr., and Chris Rose, his siblings, Betty Anderson, Vera Longen, Dorothy Nicholson, and Sam Rose. Nineteen grandchildren and six great-grandchildren also survive. Phil was cremated. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. on Saturday at the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home. A Sharing of Memories Ceremony will begin at 2:00 p.m. Nineteen grandchildren and six great-grandchildren also survive. The family suggests contributions be made to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Avenue, Topeka, KS 66603. Online condolences and fond memories may be left at www.brennanmathenafh.com.