News Summary
Rosalie Julia Calhoun, known for her deep family roots and dedication to community service, passed away at 75. A proud Plank Owner, she participated in numerous naval commissioning events and contributed significantly to various charitable organizations. Rosalie’s life was rich in educational accomplishments, adventurous spirit, and strong family bonds, making her an unforgettable figure in the Coronado community.
Coronado, California – Rosalie Julia Calhoun, a remarkable individual known for her extensive family heritage and commitment to service, passed away on December 16, 2024, at the age of 75. She succumbed to complications from heart disease, leaving behind a legacy enriched by her family’s storied history and her involvement in community service. Rosalie is survived by her long-time partner, Stephen Geiger, as well as her siblings and their families.
Born on May 4, 1949, in North Island, California, Rosalie was the second of three children of Admiral William Lowndes Calhoun and Rosalie Oneschuk Calhoun. Her lineage traces back to John C. Calhoun, a prominent American statesman who served as Vice President of the United States under both John Quincy Adams and Andrew Jackson. Rosalie’s father, a notable figure in his own right, played a critical role in naval history as a member of Teddy Roosevelt’s Great White Fleet and a logistical officer during World War II, earning recognition for supporting millions of servicemen.
Rosalie’s academic journey began in local schools, culminating in her graduation from Coronado High School in 1967. She earned her degree from Mills College in 1971 and later from California State University Hayward in 1982, showcasing her commitment to education and personal development. At just 14 years old, she had the honor of christening the US Navy submarine USS John C. Calhoun, an event that marked the beginning of her lifelong involvement with naval commissioning ceremonies.
As a proud Plank Owner, Rosalie participated in numerous commissioning events for US Naval ships across the nation, allowing her to meet several notable individuals, including Laura Bush and family members of various US Presidents. Her experiences included thrilling moments aboard aircraft carriers, such as a carrier landing and catapult launch, as well as steering the USS Calhoun during its final dive prior to decommissioning.
Throughout her life, Rosalie was not only defined by her familial ties but also by her extensive volunteer work. She held the position of vice president on the board of Bay Community Support Services in Maryland, showcasing her dedication to helping others. Additionally, she contributed her time to organizations such as United Cerebral Palsy, the Junior League, and Coronado’s Crown Garden Club. Friends and community members remember her as a caring individual with exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
Outside her professional and volunteer pursuits, Rosalie had a flair for adventure and entertainment. A notable anecdote from her teenage years includes baking a cake for The Beatles to present at their 1964 concert in Balboa Stadium, which drew media attention. She also pursued a daring attempt to surprise The Rolling Stones by boarding a plane to meet them. Her love for all things British was evident in her choice of a bright red Austin-Healey convertible.
In her leisure time, Rosalie enjoyed crocheting, cross-stitching, reading, and watching classic films. Her close bond with her family was characterized by her affection for her two nieces and two nephews, whom she adored. Despite facing health challenges, including a serious injury from a pet parrot bite in 1999 that led to the loss of part of her thumb, Rosalie became health-conscious and remained active throughout her life.
Having served various government agencies, including the Social Security Administration and the Department of the Navy, Rosalie’s career was as impressive as her familial legacy. Her life’s journey is marked by her commitment to her family, her community, and her rich heritage. Rosalie Calhoun will be remembered not only for her exceptional background and accomplishments but also for her unforgettable spirit and dedication to service.
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Additional Resources
- Coronado Times: Rosalie J. Calhoun (1949-2024)
- Wikipedia: John C. Calhoun
- Patch: Recent Obituaries
- Google Search: Rosalie Calhoun
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rosalie Calhoun
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
