Roselinda Hightower, of St. Paul, MN, passed away at home on October 28, 2024.  She was 76 years old.

Rose was born on August 10,1948 in Brooklyn, NY, to Frank and Antoinette Petracca. She grew up on Long Island, often recounting memories of the ocean and her fondness for swimming.  Her sense of adventure and fierce independence brought her to Toronto where she raised Tony and Andrew.  Every year she embarked on new feats, from canoeing to furthering her education.   Her guiding light was curating experiences and memories.  

Rose's work at IBM first in Toronto and later in Vancouver led to a consulting career and authorship of several books later in life.

She is survived by her children Tony (married to Joanna, & grandson Felix), Andrew (Karen), and siblings Rick (Jeffrey), Paula (Bill),  plus their grandchildren and cousins.  Her family was her pride and joy, and she greatly enjoyed phone calls, emails and video chats.

A talented auditor, teacher, mentor and author, Rose was also known in her Saint Paul neighborhood for her beautifully curated gardens.  She could often be found engaged in spirited chats with neighbors.  She was an active volunteer at memory care facilities, often visiting local gardens and churches with those whose families were not nearby.

Her legacy of quick wit, dedication to her sons and spirit for travel, adventure and experiences will live on through her family and friends, who retell her stories and the lessons she left behind.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, Rose would prefer a donation be made to the Como Park Conservatory (https://comofriends.org/donate/), a favorite place of hers for the last few years.