Rose Kolesar, age 100, of Colonial Heights passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026. Born December 15, 1925, she was the daughter of the late Wasil and Catherine Sterenchock, and was also preceded in death by her husband of 76 years, Nicholas Kolesar; granddaughter, Laura Elizabeth Kolesar; two brothers, Steven and Joseph, and three sisters, Margaret Borak, Ann Sanko, and Mary Pleban.

Rose dedicated her life to nurturing her family and supporting her husband’s military career that spanned 28 years with overseas assignments, embodying resilience and grace as a military spouse. Her primary focus was on raising her children and later helping to care for her young grandchildren. She was a devoted and loving mother and grandmother.

Her commitment to service extended far beyond her home and into her local community. Alongside her husband, Rose volunteered her time to the Lions Club Hearing Conservation Committee, conducting hearing screening for thousands of students in the Prince George Public Schools.

Rose was a devout parishioner of Fort Lee Memorial Chapel and later St. Ann Catholic Church. Her devotion was reflected not only in her weekly attendance, but in her quiet service to the Fort Lee church community, where she regularly stayed behind to help tidy up the chapel after Mass.

Beyond her community service and faith, Rose had a passion for bowling. A spirited and active competitor, she bowled well into her golden years, continuing the sport until the age of 93. Bowling on leagues in Petersburg and Fort Lee, her skill led to numerous team and individual trophies and awards. Rose not only played but also held league leadership positions.

Among her many homemaking skills, Rose had a special talent for sewing. By hand stitching or using her sewing machine, she expertly made alterations or repairs to her family’s garments. She was known for creating hems that did not show a visible stitch and mending fabric tears that restored garments to their original wearable condition.

She is survived by her daughter, Rosanne Kolesar; son, Nicholas Michael Kolesar; grandson, Bradley Edward Kolesar and wife, Jenna; great-grandchildren, Avery Kolesar, Nolan Kolesar, and Michael Garrett; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services are private. Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2033 Boulevard. Online condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.