Rosemary Bivona

Rosemary Bivona, 82, a resident of College Station, TX for 18 years, passed peacefully and gained her eternal rest on May 27, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on Galveston Island on March 24, 1941, and was always a proud BOI (born on island). Rosemary was a cradle Catholic and her faith sustained her throughout her life. She loved Galveston and often reminisced about her time growing up on the island. Rosemary married the love of her life, John Paul Bivona, on July 10, 1960, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Galveston. They were devoted to each other for over 62 years of marriage.

Rosemary had a generous heart and a big personality. She never met a stranger and reveled in striking up a conversation with a friendly face. Always a gracious hostess, Rosemary relished family gatherings. She was an avid baker and known for her Christmas cookies, which were her mother’s recipe. Rosemary was an expert card player and especially enjoyed Canasta and Texas Hold’Em; she also enjoyed the thrill of the slot machine and was consistently a big winner. Her passions included supporting her children and grandchildren’s various endeavors and Texas A&M University. She and John traveled the U.S. following their favorite football team, the Aggies, and were season football ticket holders for 30+ years.

Rosemary supported philanthropic efforts in her community. She was a longtime volunteer and an officer of the Galveston County Aggie Moms Club. As well, she served on the Board of Directors for the Ronald McDonald House of Galveston for many years.

She is survived and lovingly remembered by her husband John Bivona, daughter Brenda Polivka, and husband Kevin, daughter Cathy Bivona, grandson John Robert Polivka, and wife Casey, granddaughter Jenna Polivka, and fiancée Matt Robinson, great-grandson Hank (John Henry) Polivka, brother Jess Pacheco, and wife Becky, niece Renise Doerr, and husband Hal, nephew Mathew Pacheco, and great-nephew Harrison Doerr, along with her extended family.

Rosemary lived a fruitful life, leaving family and friends who will cherish her memory. Memorial donations may be made to the Ronald McDonald House of Galveston, 301 14th St., Galveston, TX 77550, or the charity of your choice. Rosemary’s final wish was to return to Galveston and be buried next to her parents. Interment will be held at a later date.