Rose Mary McDaniel Kelland

1947 ~ 2018

A loving and beautiful woman, Rose Mary McDaniel Kelland, passed away peacefully in her sleep, at home on April 4, 2018, at the age of 71.

Rose Mary was born on January 15, 1947 in Avon Park, FL, to Joyce Teal and Horace F. (Mac) McDaniel and was the oldest of five children. Rose Mary enjoyed picking on heryounger siblings; Sharon McDaniel Nygren, Judy McDaniel Grinvald, Doug McDaniel and Teresa McDaniel Young and loved them with all her heart.

As a child of a father serving in the U.S. Army, Rose Mary spent her childhood growing up in FL, MO, IN, AK, and finally settling in UT, where she attended Granger High School.

Rose Mary had the most beautiful daughters, Tina and Lisa, whom she loved more than anything. She always put her daughter's needs before her own and made a lot of sacrifices. Rose Mary taught her girls how to love, be strong and to have fun.

In 1980, Rose Mary married the love of her life, Leo F. Kelland whom she met at Ft. Douglas at the University of Utah. They spent the last 38 years together going on adventures and sharing their lives. Leo loved Rose Mary with all his heart and soul. He cared for her wellbeing to the very last moment.

In 1989, Rose Mary's life was forever changed when her only grandchild was born, Cody J. Hanson. Cody brought so much happiness to his Grams and Gramps! Rose Mary loved Cody with all her heart and he loved her. Cody has spent the last nine years caring for his Grams and has never left her side.

Rose Mary was a ray of sunshine and full of life! She loved everyone; and everyone loved her. She was always the life of the party and enjoyed life to the fullest!

She loved cats with a passion!!!!

Rose Mary loved the outdoors! She loved to camp, water ski, snow ski, river run and riding her horses. She was a member of the women's Silver Spurs riding club, which she loved! She rode in rodeos, parades and was in numerous equestrian competitions.

In 2003, Rose Mary was baptized at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. She embraced this calling with everything she had. She loved her church, and all of the amazing and wonderful people that have fulfilled her life.

Rose Mary worked for the University of Utah for more than 25 years and held many significant positions. She created, implemented and was the Director of the Elder Hostile Program. This was something she was extremely successful at due to her love and compassion for the elderly.

In 1989, Rose Mary decided to attend the University of Utah to obtain a degree. By taking night classes and pure dedication, Rose Mary graduated in 1994 with a Social and Bachelors of Science Degree at the age of 47!

At the U of U, Rose Mary also held the position of Director of the Business Administration Master's Program. Her last held position was the Director of the Continuing Education Program and was the Site Manager at the Sandy and Murray Campuses.

Rose Mary loved working for the U. At age 62, She decided to take an early retirement due to health concerns.

During the past few years, Rose Mary has had her unfair share of illnesses. She spent too many of those years in doctor's offices, emergency rooms and ambulances. It was heartbreaking to witness her light slowly diminishing.

However, even though the outcome was not looking hopeful, Rose Mary and her family were blessed with the medical staff of Hospice. Hospice took care of Rose Mary, befriended her and loved her. Each and every one of them are a special angel. The family would like to personally thank Rose Mary's Hospice Angels. She loved each and every one of you. Thank you to Rose Mary's RN Becky Johnson, CNA Charlotte Wayman, Chaplain Ruth Zollinger and Social Worker Trisha Wilson.

The Family is also sending our sincerest thanks to all that have sent their love and prayers to our family. Thank you for blessing her with your love as we know that she had blessed yours.

Funeral Mass will be held Monday, April 9, 2018 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 300 East 11800 South, Draper, UT beginning at 11:00 AM. A celebration gathering will take place Sunday, April 8, 2018 at Le Jardin at the Rose Shop, 1910 Dimple Dell Road (10600 S.) in Sandy, UT, from 4-6 PM, as well as one hour prior at the church. Interment to follow at Larkin Sunset Gardens. For a full obituary and to share condolences, please visit www.larkincares.com.