Rose Marie Yovanovich

Surrounded by her family, Rose Marie (Kostoff) Yovanovich, 83, passed away at home on May 30, 2025, after a brave battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born in Akron, OH, on October 11, 1941, and named for the classic song “Rose Marie,” Rose was welcomed by her parents, Tom and Stoina Kostoff and big brothers, Chris and John. A 1959 graduate of Garfield High School, Rose attended The University of Akron, majoring in Secretarial Science. In 1960, she started her professional career at the Akron Public Schools Board of Education, eventually becoming an Executive Secretary and remaining there until 1975, when she left for what she considered her most important job – stay-at-home mom to her three adored children. In 1986, Rose ventured back into the workforce, first as a part-time accounting secretary with Donovan, Bury & Co. and then in 1991, she transitioned to the Summit County Court of Common Pleas, where she remained until her retirement in 2007, as a Bailiff for Judge Patricia A. Cosgrove.

A long-time member of St. Thomas Eastern Orthodox Church, Rose sang in the choir and served on the Board of Trustees. Rose’s faith steered her throughout her life, from the baptisms of her children and grandchildren to the guidance she received from Fr. Vlad as she transitioned from this earthly life. She often referenced The Byrds’ song, “Turn! Turn! Turn! (To Everything There is a Season)” from Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 when she thought of God’s work.

Rose’s greatest joys in her life were her family and friends. Lovingly referred to as “Coach,” she enjoyed attending her kids and grandkids sporting events and when asked by her kids how they played, she would always share her honest, yet kind, opinion. Her kids joked with Rose that she had more friends than anyone they knew and her three longest friends, Barb (from Kindergarten) Sophie (from first grade) and Violet (from babyhood) share the best stories about her. Often teased about her love of Hallmark Channel movies, Rose always loved romance and fairy tales, including the soap opera, Days of our Lives, Danielle Steel novels and a lifelong affection for dogs.

Preceded in death by her parents, brothers, and husband of 48 years, Stevan, Rose is survived by daughters, Stephanie (Michael) Pfeiffer; Laura (Jeffrey) Yovanovich and son Stevan (Katherine); grandchildren Jacob and Claire Yovanovich; many nieces, nephews, and friends and her devoted pups, Daphne & Gretchen.

Our family is very thankful to the team at Summa Hospice, especially her RN case manager, Pam, and aide, Sunni, who cared for Rose with the utmost love, respect, and dignity during her final days.

Funeral Liturgy Friday, June 6, 2025, at 12pm at St. Thomas Eastern Orthodox Church, 555 S. Cleveland Massillon Rd Fairlawn, OH 44333 where friends may call from 10am until time of service.

Interment Monday, June 9, 2025, 12:15pm at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Thomas Eastern Orthodox Church.

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