Remembering Jerry David Rose, 74, of Hayward

Information submitted by Kathryn Rose-Mathisen:

Jerry David Rose was born in Long Beach and raised in Mc Cloud, Ca. Jerry married his wife of 52 years, Carol in 1962.

Jerry, Carol and their daughter Jennifer moved to Hayward in 1965 where they were soon joined by a second daughter, Kathy. Jerry was employed by Cal State University East Bay for over 30 years.

He started as chemistry lab assistant and rose through the ranks ending his career as the associate director of academic computing services. One of his early accomplishments was that he was the first student to have a special major approved in computer sciences, before there was a computer sciences department.

He was best known for his annual impersonation of Dracula and his tour through administration building offering to bite the necks of willing "victims" every Halloween.

He was a dedicated supporter of the fine arts and a founding member of Cal State Friends of the Arts charitable organization. Jerry loved languages and became proficient in Spanish, French and a bit of Italian.

This came in handy as Jerry and Carol were prolific travelers and have been to most major European countries, China, Japan, Africa, Australia and several other countries.

He loved food and wine and was a member of several wine and food centered organizations.

On June 25, he was struck by a car while taking his daily walk through his neighborhood and passed away on the evening of June 26 surrounded by his family.  

He is survived by his wife, Carol, daughters Jennifer Rose-Palmquist and Kathryn Rose-Mathisen and five grandchildren: David Palmquist, Jr., Kirsten Palmquist, Chloe Palmquist, Allison Mathisen and Rebecca Mathisen.

Donations in his memory can be made to CSUEB Educational Foundation - Friends of the Arts.