Rose Marie (Spencer) Oravitz

The Lord called Rose Marie (Spencer) Oravitz, 87, to her heavenly home on August 9th, 2024. Rose Marie was born in Pittsburgh on February 9th, 1937, to the late Irene Kress and Charles “Glen” Spencer. At 19, she met the love of her life, James L. Oravitz Jr., when he returned from the Navy. They met in the Young People’s Club during an outing at a bowling alley that her Uncle owned. James was amazed at how a petite young woman could throw the ball with such force. They married in 1958 at Most Blessed Sacrament Church in Natrona Heights. 

As a homemaker, Rose Marie lovingly cared for her three children and supported and adored her disabled son, Michael, until he passed at age 57. She loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and adored spending time with them.

During her earlier years, Rose Marie was active in several bowling leagues and card clubs, cultivating many lifelong friendships. One of her favorite hobbies was visiting the casino. She loved to travel with her husband, enjoying trips out west and countless beach vacations. On these trips, Rose Marie enjoyed her family's excitement and laughed at their crazy antics. She recounted these joyful memories decades later, making for humorous family gatherings. 

Later in life, when Parkinson’s disease limited her mobility, Rose Marie enjoyed sudoku, crossword puzzles, and word searches, which kept her mind sharp. Despite her physical challenges, her impeccable memory and quick wit continued to shine.

Rose Marie was deeply devoted to the Blessed Mother and made a pilgrimage to Lourdes, France. She credited her long life to her faith and her husband’s care. 

A pillar of strength to her family and friends, Rose Marie is remembered as brave and resilient. 

She was preceded in death by her brother, Michael Spencer; her sons, Michael and Paul Oravitz; and her daughter-in-law, Heather Oravitz. 

She is survived by husband, James Oravitz; daughter, Colleen Venglish; son-in-law, Richard Venglish; sister-in-law, Debra Duncan; nephew, Scott Spencer; brother-in-law, Gary Oravitz; sister-in-law, Rita Oravitz; sister-in-law, Shirlee George; grandchildren: Alyssa (Roy) Flemm, Amanda Venglish, Taylor and Cole Oravitz; great-grandchildren, Ellie and Maxwell Flemm; and her devoted caregivers. 

Memorial contributions can be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research

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