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Rose M. Close

Rose Marie (Chemelli) Close, 91, of Kittanning, PA, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026, at Armstrong County Memorial Hospital surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on January 26, 1935, the daughter of Domenic and Mary (Gispanski) Chemelli.

Rose was a devoted member of St. Mary, Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Kittanning, where she served as manager of the Parish Hall for many years. She also worked as a floral designer at Jackie's Flowers. Rose enjoyed sewing, cooking, canning, baking, and people watching from her front porch. Her family especially cherished her homemade bread and baked goods, particularly her beloved Christmas cookies. Above all, Rose was happiest when surrounded by her family during large gatherings filled with laughter, noise, and the wonderful chaos that made those moments so special.

Her memory will be cherished by her daughter, Rose "Sis" Rumbarger of Kittanning; sons, Joseph (Susan) Close of Worthington, Daniel (Catherine) Close of Sarver, and Richard Close of Bessemer; grandchildren, Tyler (Bekah) Rumbarger, Dalton (Ashley) Rumbarger, Dominic (Amanda) Close, Emily Close, Kylie and Owen Close; great-grandchildren, Ava, Harper, Kayson, Benton, Bailey, Azalea, Kiah, Noah, Poppy, and two great-grandchildren due in the spring; a sister, Margaret "Peg" Martinez of San Antonio, TX; a sister-in-law, Justine Chemelli of Baltimore, MD; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Rose was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Thomas F. Close who died June 24, 2022; grandson, Jerad Close; great-grandson, Daxton Close; brother, Jerome "Butch" Chemelli; sister, Paulett Chemelli; and son-in-law, Harold Rumbarger.

The Close family would like to thank Paula and Ken Grey of Greys Colonial Acres along with their staff for all their love, care and support.

At the request of the family, services will be privately held.

Interment will be held in Lawn Haven Burial Estates, Worthington, PA.

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