Rosemary Shea Barry “Aunt Ro” Balkenbush

Rosemary Shea Barry “Aunt Ro” Balkenbush, 93, of Springfield died at 8:52 am, Tuesday, November 30, 2021 at HSHS St. John’s Hospital. She was born June 22, 1928, in Springfield, IL, to Fred and Esther (Nolan) Shea. She married William P. Barry, Sr. and he preceded her in death. She married Frank Balkenbush and he preceded her in death July 10, 2015.

She is survived by three stepsons, Paul (Bridgette) Balkenbush of Florissant, MO, David (Cheryl) Balkenbush of St. Louis, MO, and Donald (Carol) Balkenbush of Donaldson, IL; 15 step grandchildren; 1 step-great grandchild and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Fred and Robert Shea; sister, Patricia Shea Beatty; two stepsons, Michael and William Balkenbush; two nephews, Kevin and Robert Beatty and two sisters-in-law, Hermina Shea and JoAnn Shea.

She was a member of St. Joseph Church. She was a member of the Ursuline Order for 17 years. Rosemary was a member of the St. Louis de Marillac Guild and enjoyed her many coffees and card playing friends.

She received her BA degree from the college of New Rochelle, NY and furthered her studies at St. Louis University and Fontbonne College as well as several other schools.

She was a teacher and educator for 32 years in St. Louis Counties of Kirkwood, Jennings and Florissant. She also taught at St. Teresa High School in Decatur and in Springfield at Fairview Grade School and Ursuline Academy.

Memorial Gathering: 10:30 – 11:30 am, Thursday, December 16, 2021 at St. Joseph Church.

Memorial Mass: 11:30 am, Thursday, December 16, 2021 at St Joseph Church with Reverend Manuel Cuizon officiating.

Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery where she will be buried along with her husband, Frank Balkenbush where he will receive military honors.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Church or Villa Angela in Springfield, IL.

Share stories & photos at StaabObituary.com

©2021 All Content Obituary Systems