Rosemary Holzhuter

Rosemary Anne (Hughes) Holzhuter, 84, died October 4, 2022. She was born August 11, 1938, in and grew up in Topeka, Kansas, the daughter of Rozier and Dorothy (Carey) Hughes. Her loving family included her sisters, Regina Knapp (Larry), Dorothy Mae, and Kathleen Shirk (Thomas). She was preceded in death by an infant sister, Mary Harriet, her brother, Joseph and both of her parents. Rosemary graduated from Hayden High School and later earned her Bachelor in Fine Arts degrees in Music and Elementary Education from St. Mary College. In 1960, she married Leo John Holzhuter and a week later, they went to Punta Gorda, British Honduras (now Belize) to establish St. Peter Claver School, a secondary school where she taught a variety of subjects, including English and Latin. On returning to the United States, she earned her Master’s degree in Education and taught in elementary school in Topeka and surrounding communities for nearly 40 years. Her classroom welcomed students to learn beyond the textbook with music, theater, hands on experiences and a warmth of sincere encouragement that nurtured their best character. Her family continues to hear stories from former students of the impact of Mrs. Holzhuter’s teaching upon their lives. Her home and heart were enriched by Ampie (Chee) Dijos, Thomas Mark Zuniga (now in heaven), and sons, David and John Martin and his wife Linda (also now in heaven). In 1975, she moved with her family to Overbrook, Kansas, where she joined the Fidelis Club and hosted many of her students at “Cedar Grove Farm.” There she taught them (and her grandchildren, nieces, and nephews) how to milk cows, gather and hatch eggs, ride horses, herd geese, chase Guinea hens, appreciate fresh picked produce and the love of loyal dogs. Rosemary gave of herself in dedication to community and her faith. She was an avid supporter of music, theater and art education programs. She had a lifelong passion for serving the frail and lonely; targeting those in need of a song to fuel their hearts or a loaf of her fresh-baked bread to warm their souls. A visitation will take place on Tuesday, October 11, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, commencing with the praying of the rosary at 5 p.m. and followed by time for sharing memories, stories, laughter and tears. Due to Rosemary’s COVID concerns, a private Funeral Mass and inurnment will be held at later date. A video of these will be recorded and viewing access made available for those who request the online access link. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations, in care of Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, can be directed to a non-profit charitable fund at “Winter Center” ATTN: Holzhuter Fund for Children Condolences may be sent online to wwww.kevinbrennanfamily.com.

Rosemary Holzhuter

August 11, 1938 - October 4, 2022