It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Kenneth Lee Rose, a beloved resident of Rio Dell, California, who tragically passed away on the morning of February 7, 2025, at the age of 55. Kenneth, known affectionately by many as Baby, Honey BunBun, Dad, Opa, Kenneth Lee, Kenny, Rosebud, and Wolfie, leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.
Kenneth was born on December 16, 1969, to Carl and Nancy (Cowart) Rose in Fortuna, California. As the youngest son and fifth child in the family, Kenneth was raised in Fortuna and Hydesville, where he attended what was then known as Town School, Hydesville Elementary, Fortuna High School, and East High. His childhood was filled with fond memories, many of which revolved around his love of playing in the woods on Vancil Avenue with his brothers and friends. These carefree moments in the natural beauty of the area shaped much of Kenneth’s youth, and his love for the outdoors remained a constant theme throughout his life.
Kenneth’s life was tragically cut short when he passed away suddenly from a massive gastrointestinal hemorrhage on February 7, 2025. His unexpected death has left a profound emptiness in the lives of all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Carl and Nancy Rose, and his special friend, Andy Crase. His family and friends now mourn the loss of a man who meant so much to so many.
Despite his passing, Kenneth’s love and spirit will endure through the many lives he touched. He is survived by his devoted and adoring wife, Cindi Rose, with whom he shared a deep and loving partnership. Together, they built a life filled with joy, support, and shared memories. Kenneth’s children, whom he cherished deeply, include Kenneth Lee Anderson-Rose, Benjamin Rose, Amy Rose, Matthew Rose (Melissa), and Jared Warden. He was not only a father to his own children but also a loving stepfather to Cindi’s children, Molly Buck (Felix), Callie Buck, and Levi Buck, whom he treated as his own.
Kenneth’s love extended to his grandchildren, who were a great source of pride and joy in his life. His grandchildren—Lauriana, Nevaeh, Braydon, Teheya, Trae, Bellamy, Braxton, Kaliyah, Kaysen, Natalia, and Lily—will forever carry his memory with them, as they were fortunate to experience the love and warmth of their Opa. Kenneth’s love for his family was boundless, and he will be deeply missed by each and every member of his family, especially by his siblings: David Cowart, Ronald Rose (Heidi), Steven Rose (Audrey), Brian Rose (Tammy), and June Rose-Castro (Noe).
In addition to his immediate family, Kenneth is survived by his in-laws, John and Arlene Mock, Aaron Mock (Ruth), and Ammi Mock (Mark), as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who were touched by his kindness and generosity. The loss of Kenneth is felt deeply by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him, and his memory will be cherished by all who loved him.
As the family grieves, they are comforted by the love and support of the community, which has rallied around them in this difficult time. To honor Kenneth’s memory and to provide an opportunity for those who loved him to come together and share their memories, a memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Fortuna Church of the Nazarene, located at 1355 Ross Hill Road, Fortuna. The family warmly welcomes all who knew Kenneth to attend the service and share their fond memories of him.
Kenneth’s life was marked by his genuine care for others, his love of family, and his adventurous spirit. He was a man who found joy in the simple things, whether it was spending time with his family, enjoying the outdoors, or making others laugh with his kind heart and generous nature. Kenneth’s legacy is one of love and laughter, and his memory will continue to inspire all those who knew him. Though he may no longer be with us, his impact on the lives of his family and friends will never fade.
As we remember Kenneth Lee Rose, let us take solace in the fact that his love will continue to shine through in the hearts of his family. The memories he created with those closest to him will live on, and the lessons he imparted will be passed down through the generations. We celebrate Kenneth’s life, his love for his family, and the many ways in which he touched the hearts of those around him. May his memory be a blessing and a source of comfort as his loved ones navigate the days ahead without him by their side.
