October 9, 1921-July 11, 2019
Rose Bonarrigo, 97, of Bryan, passed away on Thursday, July 11, 2019.
Born in Harlem, New York, the oldest of 5 children, Rose Bonarrigo had the opportunity of going to school for 6 years. She left school to go to work for her family. Rose has spent her entire life helping others.
Working side by side with her husband, Paul, as a Super in a Bronx apartment building, then helping Paul make jewelry enabled them to move to New Jersey and share the good life. When Paul said let’s move to Florida, she packed her bags and supported his every move. She was a good mother to son, Paul Vincent, and daughter, Rose.
She had a great sense of humor. Some of her great quotes: “There is a lid for every pot”, “Bada-Bing”, “Whatever”, and was known for her candid comments. When she found herself alone, she stepped right up and made a great life for herself in Florida and made so many friends as Mama Rosa Rose’ at Messina Hof.
Her life was a triumph of overcoming obstacles. She never met a stranger, made friends wherever she went, and loved casinos, bingo, and her beloved scratches. We celebrate her life as she calls out the numbers in Heaven and the grand bingo game of life.
She was preceded in death by her father, John Russo; mother, Gracie Russo; brother, Dan Russo; and sisters, Lucy and Mary Russo.
Rose is survived by her son, Paul Vincent Bonarrigo and his wife, Merrill; daughter, Rose Holson and her husband, Frank; grandson, Paul Mitchell Bonarrigo and wife Karen; great-granddaughter, Sophia Marie; and great-grandson, Paul Anthony.
A celebration of life will be held at Messina Hof winery in August.
Arrangements are in the care of Callaway-Jones Funeral and Cremation Centers, Bryan-College Station.
Express condolences at CallawayJones.com
Rose was an amazing woman a great role model for many people. We will miss her dearly. ciao Rosa
Paul, so sorry to hear of Mama Rosa’s passing. Sincere condolences for you and your family at this time. Wendell & Cynthia
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Bill and I are sorry to learn of your lost. Paul I know you will truly miss your wonderful mama. I am sure she is smiling down on you and your beautiful family.
Bill and Kathrine Brink
Praying for your family. It sounds like a life fully lived. I enjoyed reading her story.
Much love to you all, she will be missed.
Sending love to you guys. So sorry to hear.
May the sorrow you feel in your hearts lighten by the love that surrounds you all.
Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
Hugs, Jim & Amy Guthrie
Prayers for your family
How we loved her. My most fondest memory of Mama Rosa was in Cozumel, Mexico. We took a cooking class together and our cooktop burners kept going out and the chef had to light our burners three times. This was the moment I saw Momma Rose flirt for the first time. She stated and I quote, “Come on baby light my fire”! Priceless!!!!
Did I mention she blew it out the third time!!! That’s right she was having fun with our young chef
ha ha ha
Tanya and I are very sorry for your loss, Paul. Mama Rosa is a sparkle in Heaven sky while she looks at us all she touched with that big beautiful smile. Prayers are sent of strength, passion, and endless love to you, family and friends all over the world. God has blessed us all whom she touched and is with Him as well forever in our hearts.
We are so sorry for your loss but know that Mrs. Rose is having a ball in heaven. We were lucky enough to spend some time with her when she came to Rehoboth. Always spunky and quite a lady.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!
So sorry for your loss. Sounds like a women who loved life. A lot like you Rose. My thoughts and prayers are with you
Praying for Gods comforting hand on your family. Love to you all. Alan & Nancy Young
Gladys and Raymond and our entire family send our Condolences God Bless Her Soul
The sweetest Rose in the garden. We are all poorer without her.
Dear Rose, Frank, Paul and all of the family:
I remember that whenever I went to your home your mom was always smiling. Well maybe not all the time, and I’ll take the rap for that.
With sincerity and love,
Jan Taborelli
To Paul and Family,
Sending prayers of comfort and peace.
Raise a glass to Moma Rose in Celebration of Her awesome life
It was a joy to work with her at the winery…she was always encouraging to the workers and thought nothing of helping to pack boxes and wrap wine purchases, in addition to signing bottles of wine. God’s peace.
May God comfort you and your family. May Rose Rest In Peace and May God bless her soul.
Sorry to hear about her passing she was a sweet lady with a friendly smile my prayers are with the family
A long life well-lived; something we all wish for. Our condolences to Paul, Merrill and the family. Wish we could be there to share in the toast.