Obituaries

LEES (BACHMANN), Rosa Paulina

Rosa Paulina Lees (Bachmann)

February 23, 1940 to October 10, 2020

Rosa passed at home in Ladner, peacefully, surrounded by her loving family.

Rosa is survived by her brother, (Philip Bachmann ((Gerti)), her partner (Edward Moore), her children (Karin & Celeste) & her grandchildren (Haley & Kaylee). She is predeceased by her Father (Balthaser), Mother (Katharina), Sister (Celestina) and Brother (Ed).

Rosa was born in Kelowna and grew up in the Ellison area. As a child, Rosa loved animals, carrying farm hens around like puppies. In adolescence, she was a baton-twirling high school cheerleader and a contestant for Lady of the Lake. As a young mother, she was an hairstylist, known for her flare. In the 80’ Rosa discovered twelve step living and shared a life of recovery with her husband, Art Lees. Becoming an Addictions Counsellor, working at both Maple Cottage and Vancouver Detox. She was revered by fellow staff, trusted and loved by clients. Her bedroom dresser drawer was packed full of thank you cards from former grateful clients. In recent years, Rosa was dedicated to her family, spoiling her two granddaughters and adoring her partner, Edward Moore. As the family matriarch, she exemplified unconditional love, affection and wisdom.

Family Reflection on Rosa’s Life

Rosa would travel with her two daughters to neighbouring friend’s kitchens for a home salon visits. The girls would watch in awe while their mom teased and sprayed pin curls to life. In motherhood she exemplified softness, affection, backbone, unconditional love, rock solid support and wisdom. In current times, she weekly called her eldest Karin to stay connected. Her youngest daughter (Celeste) and granddaughter (Kaylee) visited often for “sleep overs at Nana’s.” Making homemade blueberry pancakes & bacon for breakfast became a family tradition.

In the 90’s and 20’s Rosa was dedicated to her family. Living on the riverside in Ladner, B.C. with her partner, Edward. She loved and supported her daughters, granddaughters and adored Edward. Regular family gatherings brought much laughter and fantastic pot luck meals.

A few words from Rosa’s grand daughters’ Haley and Kaylee:

“We have memories of arm tickles from our Nana’s fresh polished nails. At the condo in Tsawwassen dressing up in all of Nana’s fanciest gowns and make-up was a regular thing. Fort-building using Nana’s pillows and sheets made life an adventure. Nana’s delicious homemade mashed potatoes or mac n’ cheese filled our bellies. Discovery channel watching and adding cute comments of every animal on the screen was our evening routine. Summer road trips to Sundance Horse Ranch, riding horses and staying in hotel luxury created the best memories. Weekend sleepovers were filled with Nana teaching us new board games and watching Flashdance. We played hairdresser with clips and bows, rainbow wash-out hair dyes and ended the day in bubble baths with all the kitchen utensils and colorful bath bombs. Rosa’s youngest granddaughter, Kaylee spent many hours drawing at the kitchen table in Ladner. Her Nana would wander over often and admire her work. Finished pieces would made it to the fridge for display.”

To Rosa

You’ve been with me most of our lives.

You’re in my soul.

The love of my life.

My greatest gift.

My friend.

Written by Edward Moore

A Private Family service will be held at a later date.

In honor of Rosa’s outstanding work with those struggling with addiction in the DTES & in lieu of flowers please make a donation to First United Church www.firstunited.ca

Condolence Messages

Oct 26, 2020
My deepest and most heartfelt Sympathy to you Phil and Gerti on the loss of your sister Rosie, I went to school with Rosie and we graduated together, we were friends for years, but lost touch later in time.

Also my sincere Sympathy to you Edward.. and of course including her daughters and family.. Margaret Ruf, nee Krause
Oct 25, 2020
My condolences on the loss of a great personality. Rosie will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Love and good wishes - until we meet again.

J.Jay Gartel
Oct 24, 2020
So very sorry for your loss, our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.

Karl and Judy Krissler
Oct 24, 2020
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Domenic and Lina Rampone
Oct 23, 2020
I am so sorry for your loss. Rosa was a wonderful loving person!!she always made me smile! Prays go out to you all! Sherrie