Rosemary June Charlotte Carlson Hagedorn was born in Boone, Iowa on June 24, 1931 to Reuben and Dorothy (nee Johnson) Carlson. Rosemary was 93 years old, and passed away peacefully at Wesley House, Gainesville, Texas, on November 29, 2024, following a brief illness.

Rosemary was raised on the family farm near Mackey, Iowa, and was active in 4 – H, Methodist Youth Fellowship, and family musical endeavors from a young age. She graduated from Gilbert High School in 1949, and played guard on their half – court basketball team in the state tournament.  She attended Iowa State University, majoring in Home Economics Education, and graduated in 1953.

She married the love of her life, Harry Howard Hagedorn, on June 14, 1953, and moved to Alameda, California while Harry completed his commitment as a Naval Officer. Following Harry’s Naval service, Harry and Rosemary returned to the Hagedorn farm in Jefferson, Iowa. Harry assumed farming responsibilities, started a dairy herd, and began his teaching career, while Rosemary supported his efforts in countless ways. They were married for 66 years and welcomed five children into their lives: Mark Alan (Deann) Hagedorn of Cameron, WI; Kristin (Terry) Hagedorn Cudahy of Carmel, IN; Saundra (Bobby) Hagedorn Hinsley of Sadler, TX; David Kirk ( Teresa) Hagedorn of Walnut Grove, MO; and Ruth (Bill) Hagedorn Lowery Greenwood of Hayden, ID.

Harry and Rosemary were wonderful parents and always active in their children’s pursuits. After their children were school – aged, Rosemary returned to the classroom as a remedial reading teacher in the Jefferson Community Schools. After several years, she pursued and earned a Master’s Degree in Learning Disabilities from Iowa State. Rosemary then spent many successful years teaching in the East Greene School District, touching numerous students’ lives and helping them achieve their potential.

Rosemary spent many years involved in her community. She served several terms on the Jefferson Library Board, was a member of The Greene Singers, and participated in numerous social/service organizations. Rosemary and Harry also volunteered at local hospitals following their retirement from farming and teaching. They took special delight in traveling to visit their grandchildren all over the country.

After the Hagedorn family farm was sold, Harry and Rosemary spent many happy years in the Carthage/Joplin, MO area. Following Harry’s passing in May of 2020, Rosemary moved to Wesley House, an assisted living community in Gainesville, TX. She easily made new friends and enjoyed being close to Saundra’s family. Rosemary was a superb baker and cook. Her kids and grandkids always looked forward to her Christmas cookie boxes, dinner rolls, and homemade cinnamon twists. She was a talented and resourceful homemaker, handling all challenges with efficiency and grace. Rosemary was most proud of her family, and served as a wonderful role model as mother, educator, and community advocate. Rosemary leaves a legacy of love, determination, grit, and positivity. She will always be remembered for her happy spirit and kindness to all she encountered.

Rosemary is preceded in death by her parents, husband, brothers; Dean and John Carlson; and grandson, Andrew Hagedorn.

She is survived by her children, their spouses, 11 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, sister, Priscilla (LeRoy) Johnson, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family would especially like to thank the staff of Wesley House and Arcy Hospice for their loving care, commitment to excellence, and dedicated service during Rosemary’s residency there.

Services are pending at this time. Memorials may be made to the Jefferson Public Library, the Greene County Schools Foundation, or the charity of your choice.