Rose Marie Polega-Koontz

Rose Marie (Algozino) Polega-Koontz, beloved sister, aunt, mother, wife and friend, was born into eternal life on Thursday, December 18, 2025 after a lengthy illness. Rose was the eldest daughter of the late Joe and Mae (Giambrone) Algozino. She was born on June 26, 1956.

Rose graduated in May of 1974 from Weyauwega High School. She earned an associates degree in business and spent most of her life as an office manager until retiring in 2020.

Rose had many passions. She spent her early years as a CNA, loved helping others, and loved her animals, especially her birds, squirrels and deer. She had a special devotion to her family and the Blessed Mother.

Rose loved to crochet and create floral centerpieces. Her greatest joy and passion however, was being a mother to her son, Bill. Rose was always the most fun and her joy and happiness was always apparent to her nieces and nephews who loved her rebel spirit and her infectious laugh, which will be dearly missed. Rose's intense Catholic faith deepened in her later years which provided comfort and hope through the many trials her illness caused. Life will certainly not be the same without her.

Rose is survived by her husband, Jim; son, Bill; stepdaughter, Kay; sisters: Terri (Larry) Muskevitsch, Misty (Lee) Heeter; nieces: Kate Balestrieri, Adriana Muskevitsch, Sam Muskevitsch; nephews: Rome Balestrieri, Joe Balestrieri, Grant (Brooke) Muskevitsch; great-nephews: Luca and Joey; many cousins who loved her dearly.

The Funeral Mass for Rose will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Appleton (500 W Marquette St). A gathering will be held at the church prior to the service from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Misty Heeter.