Rosemary Cottington (née Stochl), 87, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on August 29, 2024, in Urbandale, Iowa. Born on August 9, 1937, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, she was the beloved daughter of the late James A. and Frances Stochl.
Rosemary dedicated 40 years of her life to educating young minds in the Des Moines Public Schools. Her career began at Nash Elementary, where she taught fifth and sixth grades before moving to Kirkwood to teach second and third grades. A pioneer in her field, Rosemary was part of the inaugural staff at Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary, a Magnet School known for its innovative programs. Her contributions were so significant that the school was visited twice by the National Department of Education Secretary to honor its achievements. She was also an educator at Perkins Elementary School. Later, she served as the assistant principal at various elementary schools within Des Moines Public Schools.
Known for her patience, warmth, and the ability to make each student feel valued, Rosemary’s classroom was a haven of learning and encouragement. Beyond her professional life, she was an avid sports fan, excelling in softball and basketball in her younger years. Later, she channeled her creativity into scrapbooking and enjoyed the strategic challenge of playing in several bridge leagues.
Rosemary’s heart belonged to her family and her beloved pets. She had a special affection for her beagles, Sissy and Abby, who brought her immense joy and companionship. She also spoiled Muffy, Molly, Berkeley and Ruffie with love and lots of treats. Before them, she cared for two cherished cats, Nips and Tux, who were such an integral part of her life that she even created a dedicated "cat room" in her home.
Some of her fondest memories were of summer vacations at Holiday Lake, where she would spend long, sunny days with her four children—Trudy, Rosalee, Levi, and Keith. The lake was a place of laughter, where she delighted in watching her kids swim, fish, and explore the outdoors. She found peace and happiness in the simple memories created at Holiday Lake.
Rosemary is survived by her daughters, Trudy J. Hall (husband Jesse Rincon) and Rosalee F. Cottington (wife Jan Owen); sons, Levi J. Cottington (wife Michelle) and Keith P. Cottington (wife Malina); and her sister, Frances Billingham (husband Charles). She was a proud grandmother to Megan Cottington-Heath (wife Sara), Ryan W. Hall (wife Ashley), Jessica J. Hall, Anthony Cottington (husband Steven Carrell), Casey Hinrichsen (husband Steven), Phillip Newell, David Newell, Alex Cottington, Val Cottington, Kaylee Cottington, and Levi Cottington, and a loving great-grandmother to Tegan, Addyson, Elijah, Lilyan, Harry, Ray, and Frances. Rosemary was preceded in death by her daughter-in-law, Marybeth Cottington.
Rosemary's legacy of kindness, dedication to education, and love for her family and furry companions will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
