Rose M. Oljace

Rose Marie (Staley) Oljace, a beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away on November 15, 2024 after a brief illness, demonstrating the same strength and courage that marked her life. Born in Chicago on March 14, 1959, to James Staley, Sr. and Carol (Welch) Staley, Rose’s vibrant spirit touched the lives of all who knew her. She is survived by her loving husband, Robert T. Oljace, Sr., with whom she shared a deep, enduring love. They married on February 10, 1984, and enjoyed nearly 47 years together, never spending a single day apart. Rose’s legacy lives on through their four children, Robert Oljace (Megan), Michael Oljace (Briana), Monica Oljace (Tijosav), and Ryan Oljace (Brittany). Rose is also survived by her extended family, including her stepmother, Barbara Staley (late James); brother, James A. Staley, Jr. (Helen); sister, Linda Jordan (late Marcus); brothers-in-law, Richard Oljace (Karen), William Oljace (Chris), and Ronald (Tracey) Powell; sisters-in-law, Sandy Saffa (Ron), Mary Beth York (Randy), and Diane Tamalunas (Kevin); and her best friends, Lisa (late Rick) Kracich. She was cherished by numerous nieces, nephews, uncles, and friends, as well as her beloved parrot, Coco. She was preceded in death by her mother, Carol J. (Welch) Staley; father, James A. Staley, Sr.; sister, Debra J. Powell; in-laws, Marilyn (Jarabines) Oljace and Richard W. Oljace; brother-in-law, Marcus Jordan; and grandparents, George and Margaret Welch, Elsie and Edward Staley, and Grandma Zag; along with her loyal Cane Corso, Capo. Rose’s passions were many, but they all centered on her love for family and living life to the fullest. She enjoyed spending time with her loved ones, hunting for treasures in local Goodwill stores, and indulging in extreme couponing. A talented cook, Rose also enjoyed horseback riding and had a unique fondness for riding her unicycle. Together with her husband, Robert, she collected cars, from sporty models to classic beauties, taking special pride in her 1987 Monte Carlo and a newly acquired VW Bug Convertible, which she was excited to start driving as her daily ride. Rose was an artist at heart, with a boundless creativity that she shared freely with her family. She loved painting, creating beautiful works for her loved ones to enjoy. In addition to her artistic talents, Rose was a dedicated Sweepstakes Contest participant, where she won a variety of prizes that brought joy to her family. One of her most unforgettable wins was a Harley-Davidson Special Edition 105th Anniversary motorcycle, which she proudly rode on family outings, creating lasting memories. Rose was a dedicated professional, working for several years at Rest Haven Village Woods in Crete, IL, before becoming a stay-at-home mom to raise her four wonderful children. Later, she worked as a Cafeteria Assistant for Lake Central School Corporation and spent the last eight years employed at Watco Companies. Rose also served as President of the Recycling Commission for the Town of Dyer, where she made a positive impact on her community. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the William J. Riley Memorial Residence, continuing Rose’s legacy of generosity and community spirit. A visitation for Rose will be held Friday, November 22, 2024 from 4:00 to 8:00 pm at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 8178 Cline Avenue, Crown Point, IN 46307. An additional visitation will be held Saturday, November 23, 2024 from 11:00 am until time of her service at 12:00 pm at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, with interment to immediately follow. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ChapelLawnFunerals.com for the Oljace family.