MADISON - Rosemary Elizabeth Kibbe, age 89, of Madison, passed away on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at Oakwood Hebron Oaks. She was born in Madison, the daughter of Dorsey and Betty (Glenn) Botham.

Rosemary graduated from Edgewood High School. She moved to Milwaukee and worked at the Boston Store where she met her future husband. She and Richard Kibbe were married in 1956.

Rosemary’s career was almost entirely in retail. She and her husband owned several shops in Pilgrim Square. Rosemary managed the needlework store and taught herself to frame the works of art her customers fashioned. She also managed the Candle Shop which they owned in Shorewood. When the stores closed Rosemary joined Chattel Changers, a consignment store in Shorewood. Her good humor and sweet personality endeared her to many. After her husband died, Rosemary moved to Madison where she lived for over 20 years.

Rosemary is survived by her silbings: twin, Rosanne Raemisch, Jane (Nip) Botham, Betty Lou Botham, Bridget Kenngott and Steve (Jeannie) Botham; and sisters-in-law, Virginia Botham and Debra Botham. She was preceded in death by her siblings, James (Tuck) Botham, Thomas Botham, Ruth Ellen Rodgers and Barbara Botham

A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON WEST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 7435 University Ave., Middleton, at 12 noon on Tuesday, December 30, 2025. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 11 a.m. until the time of the service on Tuesday.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson West
Funeral & Cremation Care
7435 University Ave.
(608) 831-6761

Rosemary Elizabeth Kibbe

November 13, 1936 - December 20, 2025

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