Friends of Rowntree Park volunteer Rosemary Bentley has died

The team there says 'the world has lost a wonderful woman'.

Rosemary Bentley
Author: Benjamin FearnPublished 30th Dec 2021

A beloved volunteer for Friends of Rowntree Park has died.

Rosemary Bentley passed away on Christmas Eve.

In a Facebook post the Friends of Rowntree Park team said:

"It is with great sadness that we share with you that Rosemary (Rosie) Bentley passed away on Christmas Eve. She leaves a massive Rosemary shaped hole in many lives and the world has lost a wonderful woman.

"Rosemary was key in the Friends of Rowntree Park and all we do. She originally set up the volunteer gardening group following the park keeper’s redundancy. She has worked tirelessly volunteering to help Rowntree Park over the years. Out almost everyday doing what she could.

"She and her Tuesday team of volunteer gardeners created the Sensory Garden (the one full of colourful fragrant flowers) as well as much more. She was behind a number ‘yarn installations’ inspiring the craft group that she ran. She’d be out clearing snow/leaves to keep paths clear for the public. Feeding birds regularly and the ducks would follow her for their regular feed.

"There is far too much to mention in one post! Her groups went beyond just volunteering to help a park, they brought people together and created lasting friendships. Rosemary meant so much to so many.

"Rosemary brought so much warmth and positivity. A funny, loving woman who will be greatly missed - a real inspiration. Sending much love to all her family, and friends.

"If you have memories of Rosemary to pass on, please feel free to add them here and we will share with her family. A walk in the park without seeing Rosemary just doesn’t feel right".

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