Rose Mary Wray

Rose Mary Wray, 85, of Canton, MI, formerly of South Bend, IN passed away on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at her home.  Rose was born on July 20, 1940 to Rocco & Rosa Simeri of South Bend.  She retired from the University of Notre Dame where she worked for Campus Ministry at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart.  On September 15, 1962, in St. Joseph Catholic Church, South Bend, IN she married C. Edward “Ed” Wray who preceded her in death on September 30, 2022.  She was also preceded in death by her parents and brothers: Nicholas Simeri, Albert Simeri, Joseph Simeri, Patrick Simeri, and Rocco Simeri. Rose is survived by her daughter Shaun (Andy) Paluczak of San Diego, California; her two sons, Edward (Mary Ann) Wray of Canton, Michigan and Michael (Callie) Wray of Whitefish, Montana; seven grandchildren, Matthew (Hanna) Wray, Natalie Wray, Peter Wray, Emma Wray, Jackson Paluczak, Nick Wray and Van Paluczak. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. Monday, February 23, 2026 in the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, with Rev. Peter Rocca, C.S.C. officiating.  Burial will take place at a later date in Cedar Grove Cemetery.  Rose loved many things but nothing more than her family.  She was a dedicated wife, mother, “Nanni,” sister, cousin, aunt and friend to many.  Following in her mother’s tradition, Sunday pasta dinners were a priority.  Family and friends broke bread while enjoying homemade sauce, pasta, meatballs and bread while sitting around the kitchen table telling stories and laughing - that is how she will want to be remembered.  Rose cherished her time working at Notre Dame and loved being at the Basilica alongside the many Holy Cross religious and laity she considered friends.  Rose's strong Catholic faith led her to be involved with the Christ Child Society of South Bend for many years.

 A Celebration of Life, including lunch, will take place at 11:00 a.m. following the funeral Mass at the Morris Inn - Smith Ballroom. The family hopes all will join them in celebrating the memory of their Mom. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her name to  the United States Province of Priests and Brothers, Office of Mission Advancement, P.O. Box 765, Notre Dame, IN  46556-0765. Please note that the gift is in support of retired Holy Cross religious, or to the Christ Child Society, 2366 Miracle Lane, Mishawaka, IN 46545.  Kaniewski Funeral Home is handling local arrangements.

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