Of Waupaca, formerly of Hartford, age 92, passed away on Saturday, October 3, 2026. She was born in Waupaca on August 18, 1934 to the late Harold and Edna (Johanknecht) Axtell. Rosemary graduated from UW Stevens Point with a Bachelor’s Degree. She taught Home Economics for many years in the Hartford School District. Rosemary loved animals, especially her poodles. She supported animal charities and service dog programs as well as veteran’s charities. She grew up on a farm in Waupaca and raised guernsey cows, showing one at the Waupaca County Fair and Wisconsin State Fair. She was an excellent seamstress and enjoyed hosting parties. She also enjoyed spending many summer vacations at Spencer Lake.
She is survived by her sister: Nancy Anderson; a special friend Barb Wagner, nieces, nephews other relatives and friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Betty Orr and special friend, Mary Weinand.
The Funeral Service will be on Friday, October 9, 2026 at 12 p.m. at the Maple Crest Funeral Home. The visitation will be on Friday at the funeral home from 11 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will be in Lakeside Memorial Cemetery.
The family would like to thank the staff and residents of the Washington Center in New London for their excellent care. They became a second family to Rosemary. A special thank you also to Heartland Hospice for their care and support.
