Rose Mary Zolezzi

When Rose Mary Zolezzi died on January 27, 2024, she was at the end of a long journey well summarized in one of her favorite poems, “Ithaca”. Her journey was driven by curiosity and a passion for learning.

Rose Mary was deeply committed to the nursing profession, earned a master's degree, and taught for a time at the University of Indiana. She continued in nursing in the Army Reserve, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

With her husband Tony, they travelled the world, and the family enjoyed many a delightful story from England, Italy, France, Spain and Greece. Art and History were essential, and she became a docent at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. She was an accomplished seamstress and designed and made clothing. She became a flower show judge and worked at Lilly House. She read and wrote poetry, enjoyed classical music, opera, ballet, and all types of dances.

Rose Mary was talented, creative, energetic, and sometimes stubborn. She is dearly missed.

Ithaca (Constantine P. Cavafy)

When you set out on your journey to Ithaca, pray that the road is long, full of adventure, full of knowledge.

The Lestrygonians and the Cyclops, the angry Poseidon—do not fear them: You will never find such as these on your path If your thoughts remain lofty, if a fine emotion touches your spirit and your body. The Lestrygonians and the Cyclops, the fierce Poseidon you will never encounter if you do not carry them within your soul, if your soul does not set them up before you.

Pray that the road is long. That the summer mornings are many, when, with such pleasure, with such joy you will enter ports seen for the first time; stop at Phoenician markets, and purchase fine merchandise, mother-of-pearl and coral, amber and ebony, and sensual perfume of all kinds, as many sensual perfumes as you can; visit many Egyptian cities, to learn and learn from scholars.

Always keep Ithaca in your mind. To arrive there is your ultimate goal. But do not hurry the voyage at all. It is better to let it last for many years; and to anchor at the island when you are old, rich with all you’ve gained on the way, not expecting that Ithaca will offer you riches.

Ithaca has given you the beautiful voyage. Without her you would have never set out on the road. She has nothing more to give you. And if you find her poor, Ithaca has not deceived you. Wise as you have become, with so much experience, you must already have understood what these Ithacas mean.

A private family service will be held.