Rosemary Syverson Obituary

Rosemary went to be with God as the sun rose on a spectacular, cloudless Colorado morning. Her life on this earth was far too short. Born in Philadelphia, PA, she attended parochial schools in the area culminating in her graduation from Rosemont College in Villanova, PA with a BA degree in history and political science. This preceded a life-long interest in foreign affairs and diplomacy. Following a year of training at the International Montessori School in Philadelphia, she and a friend traveled to Colorado in 1969 to teach at the newly created Colorado Springs Montessori School and begin a life of adventure in the West. She quickly adapted to the mountain lifestyle, enjoying skiing, hiking, biking and climbing fourteeners. She discontinued teaching to raise her family, one of her proudest accomplishments. Subsequently, Rosemary returned to school at the University of Colorado - Colorado Springs earning her Masters Degree in Guidance and Counseling and certification as a Licensed Professional Counselor. She practiced her profession under her own name for many years until she joined the staff of the Samaritan Counseling and Education Center, where she practiced until her retirement in 2005. She specialized in marriage and family counseling and women's issues. Rosemary was dedicated to quietly helping those less fortunate than her and those who were troubled or in trouble. She volunteered at the Marian House Soup Kitchen, ministered to jail inmates, and organized fund raisers for Lalmba Associates. For several years she chaired the Board of Directors of Full Circle Alternatives, Inc., a home for recovering women, and worked with Steve Handen on his many projects in Colorado Springs and Mexico. Her heart was huge and she acted on her passion for the well-being of others. Rosemary is survived by her husband, David, and her three children; Scott and Megan of Colorado Springs and Kristin of San Diego, CA. She is also survived by her sister, Alice Burgoyne of Philadelphia, brothers Owen (Colleen) and William (Mary Jo) Maguire of Philadelphia and John (Dee) Maguire of Provincetown, MA. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Alice Maguire. A Memorial Mass will be held at the Benet Hill Chapel, 2555 N. Chelton Road, at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, May 16, 2006, followed immediately by a reception at the Ricker residence, 1326 N. Cascade Ave. Her family wishes to thank the many supporters and well-wishers who supported them in the last months. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, c/o The Komen Foundation, 5005 LBJ Fwy., Suite 250, Dallas, TX 75244.