Rosa Konefal

Rosa Konefal, 85, of Galesburg IL died Saturday September 18, 2010 at Seminary Manor. Rosa was born on July 4, 1925 in Frankenhammer bei Graslitz, Czechoslovakia, the daughter of  Emanuel and Katharina (Deistler) Klier. She married Joseph F Konefal on January 20, 1947 at the courthouse and the following day, January 21, 1947, at the church in Kaufering, Germany. After surviving the many struggles of World War II, Joe and Rosa moved to Abingdon, IL in 1950.  There they lived with their sponsored family, the Francis Kendrick family. Rosa and Joe spent countless hours of studying and quizzing one another to proudly fulfill their dream of becoming United States of America citizens. Rosa worked several years as a housekeeper for the Dale Ruedig family. She also cleaned offices for numerous businesses within the Galesburg area. Rosa loved to clean and took great pride in her work. Rosa volunteered at the Knights of Columbus in the kitchen and other events. She and her husband were awarded Volunteer Family of the Year in 1988 for their dedication and service to the organization. Over the years, Rosa and Joe developed many strong relationships with friends. Their friends became their family. Rosa treasured all the relationships and the memories they shared. Rosa is survived by her beloved husband Joseph of Galesburg, her sister-in-law Wilma Klier and her only nephew Dr Gerhard Klier, both residing in Germany. She is preceded in death by her parents and brother Josef (Peppi). Visitation will be from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, September 22, 2010 at Watson Funeral Home. A funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, with Monsignor Ernest Pizzamiglio officiating.  Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Funeral Home, Galesburg.  Memorials in Rosa’s name can be made to the Humane Society or to Seminary Manor for an educational fund for the staff. The memorials will honor Rosa’s love for animals and her gratitude towards the staff at Seminary Manor.