ALTAHA, Rosemary

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona ~ 02/21/2006 Rosemary Dazen, 61, died Thursday morning, Feb. 16, 2006 at her home in Hondah. She was born Nov. 19, 1944 to Francis and Rose Dazen. While she was still a baby, the family moved to Cibecue where she grew up. After third grade she attended St. John's Catholic Boarding School in Laveen. After graduating high school, she attended Haskell Indian Jr. College in Lawrence, Kansas. She majored in Secretarial Science. Rosemary's education led her to a career in Administration. Upon her return from Haskell College she went to work for Tribal Recreational Enterprise and The Office of the Chairman. She finished out her career and retired from her position at the Indian Health Service Hospital where she worked in the Personal Department and Central Nursing. In 1965 she met Elmo Altaha, Sr and they were married Feb. 12, 1965. Rosemary Dazen was a very strong traditional Apache woman. She had a strong tie and belief to the Traditional Ways of Prayer. She loved to go to country music concerts, especially George Strait. Rosemary loved the outdoors, she was happiest when taking rides on the mountain roads. She loved to cook, traditional dances, especially the Sunrise Ceremony. Rosemary will be greatly missed by family and friends. Rosemary is survived by her children, Rosemarie Altaha, Lisa Altaha, Elma (Lonnie) Dosela and Elmo Altaha, Jr.; grandchildren, Crystal, Demetrius, Roderick, Jason, Maria, De'ara, and Elissa; traditional God daughters, Brenda Robert, Carmen Hasteen, Jo'vanna Aday, Faith Goklesh; brother, Greg; sisters, Malinda, Barbera, Stephanie; brother-in-law, Burry and sister-in-law, Verona; two aunts, one uncle and many nephews and nieces. Funeral services were held Monday, Feb. 20 at the St. Francis Catholic Church in Whiteriver. Interment was in the Open Range Cemetery. Owens Mortuary of Show Low handled the arrangements. For those who have special memories and would like to send private condolences or sign an online guest book, visit www.owensmortuary.com.