Rosemary Baier

MISSOULA - Rosemary "Pumpkin" Luedecke Baier of Missoula passed away Monday, October 5, 2009 after a long struggle with breast and ovarian cancer. She died at her home surrounded by her family and neighbors. Rosie just hosted her 68th birthday on September 5 and her 44th wedding anniversary on September 25.
Rosemary was born in Hamilton to Frank and Helen Luedecke where she lived on Dutch Hill and attended school in Corvallis. Soon after graduation she moved to Missoula where she met Kenneth Baier. They married in 1964 and the couple has resided in East Missoula most of their married life.
When remembering Rosie, most people will remember her great entertaining and her love of the holidays and family traditions. She was the best witch on Halloween and had a Halloween village with more than 65 houses and a Halloween tree better than most of our Christmas trees. Rosie was also enthusiastic about Christmas. She decorated her house with 7 theme trees, her favorite being her "travel tree". Rosie placed ornaments on her trees she collected from her many trips and life adventures, from Paris to Alaska and down to Panama where she and Ken recently cruised through the canal. Cruising sparked an interest in ballroom dancing and she and ken spent many hours dancing. Rosie vacationed in Mexico and was even once seen parasailing.
Rosemary owned and operated the Flower Haus in Lolo for many years where she enjoyed floral arranging and chatting with her customers. After her reoccurrence of cancer she sold the store to retire. However, her love for people and flowers caused her to return part time at Caras Nursery where she worked up until this summer. She recently had many thoughts for her friends whom are now setting up for Christmas season. Rosemary always lived her life to the fullest and was happy to share her love with anyone accepting.
Rosemary was preceded in death by her parents, Frank L. and Helen L. Luedecke; her brother, David L. Luedecke; and her brother-in-law, Gordon Buckallew. She is survived by her husband, Kenneth W. Baier; her daughter, Kelly Etzel and her husband Rob; her son, Stacey Baier; 2 sisters, Barbara Buckallew and Martha Nielsen; 6 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.
The family suggests that memorials be made in Rosemary's name to Partners in Home Care; 2687 Palmer St. Suite F, Missoula, MT 59808.