Remembering RoseMarie Dembowski: A Life of Connection and Community
RoseMarie Dembowski, a woman whose warmth and spirit left an indelible mark on those around her, passed away on October 25, 2026, at the Sippican Healthcare Center in Marion, Massachusetts. She was 91 years old. Her journey brought her from her birthplace of Bridgeport, Connecticut, through long chapters in Fairfield and Simsbury, before her final years in Marion.
To those who knew her, Rose was more than just a resident of the healthcare facilities she called home; she was a catalyst for community. Despite battling congestive heart failure and COPD for many years, she maintained a presence that defied the limitations of her health. Her peers at the care facilities where she worked eventually bestowed upon her the nickname "The Mayor." It was a title earned not through politics, but through her consistent, intentional effort to bridge gaps between people. Whether she was welcoming a newcomer or encouraging a hesitant neighbor to join a group activity, she acted as the social glue in every room she entered.
A Legacy of Faith and Family
Her daughter, Bernadette Slattery, and son-in-law, John Slattery of East Falmouth, Massachusetts, survive her, along with two grandsons, Sean and Kevin, and their respective wives, Megan and Monica. For Rose, the next generation was the true light of her life. She leaves behind three great-grandchildren—Nolan, Owen, and Hailey Slattery of Hanover, Massachusetts—who were central to her world.
The strength of her character was often attributed to her deep-seated faith and a remarkably positive outlook on life. Her family notes that she took immense pride in her Italian heritage and always looked forward to celebrating her birthday, which fell on Cinco de Mayo. Her life was also defined by a enduring partnership; she was predeceased by her husband of 50 years, Joseph Dembowski, as well as her sister and brother-in-law, Theresa and Roger Baron.
Community Gathers to Honor Her Memory
The community is invited to gather to honor her memory on Tuesday, November 10, 2026. Calling hours are scheduled from 8:45 AM to 9:15 AM at the Vincent Funeral Home, located at 880 Hopmeadow Street in Simsbury, Connecticut. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:00 AM at St. Catherine of Siena, situated at 267 Stratton Brook Road in West Simsbury. Following the services, a private burial will take place in Fairfield, Connecticut.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial donations be directed to St. Catherine of Siena at their West Simsbury address. Those wishing to share condolences or view additional tributes are invited to visit the Vincent Funeral Home website to access Rose’s Book of Memories.
RoseMarie Dembowski’s life serves as a quiet reminder of how much influence one individual can have simply by choosing to reach out. Her approach to life—as “The Mayor” of her community—highlights the profound impact of simple, human-to-human kindness. While her passing is a loss to her family and friends, the template she set for community building remains.
