Rosemary Mattesich Johnson

Rosemary Mattesich Johnson entered into eternal rest on September 16, 2025, at the age of 69. She will be remembered for her loving heart, her kindness, and her strength. Born on February 3, 1956, in Hoboken, New Jersey, to Dominick and Maria (née Picinich) Mattesich, Rosemary grew up in Fort Lee surrounded by a close-knit family and community. She attended Fort Lee High School, where she proudly served as a lead baton twirler and created many friendships that endured throughout her life. Those who grew up alongside her recall her quick intelligence, her sense of humor, and the easy way she drew others in. She loved music and laughter, often gathering with friends to dance, talk, and share long phone calls. As a teenager, she worked at a local bakery so she could buy the fashionable clothes she enjoyed wearing, a reflection of her independence and spirit. These early years were filled with warmth, joy, and bonds that remained meaningful throughout her life.After graduating, Rosemary attended secretarial school at Marymount Manhattan College and went on to work as a dedicated paralegal in both New York and Florida. She later earned her Florida builders residential contractor license and worked in the industry for many years, bringing the same diligence and professionalism she carried in every role. In time, her greatest calling was motherhood, and she devoted herself wholeheartedly to raising her children, a role that became her proudest accomplishment.A woman of deep faith, Rosemary was a longtime parishioner of Saint Andrew Catholic Church and, more recently, St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church. Her devotion was steady and lived out in both service and action—whether volunteering in her parish or quietly persevering to attend Mass even in the most difficult circumstances.Beyond her family and faith, Rosemary found joy in her interests and adventures. She was a passionate Miami Heat fan, cheering them on through every season. She loved to travel; whether exploring the Florida Keys and Caribbean or tracing her family’s heritage back to Croatia, a journey she deeply cherished.

Rosemary was predeceased by her husband of 40 years, Alfred Johnson, her brother, John, son-in-law Michael, and sister-in-law Robin. She is survived by her sister, Barbara; her sister-in-law Maria; her brother-in-law Mark; her four children; her six cherished grandchildren; her son-in-law and daughter-in-law; as well as many nieces, nephews, godchildren, cousins, and countless extended family members and friends who formed a strong network of love around her throughout her life.

Those who knew Rosemary will remember her as a woman of deep kindness, quick laughter, and unwavering devotion to her family. She leaves behind a legacy of love, friendship, and cherished memories that will continue to live on in all who had the gift of knowing her.The family wishes to thank all who have shared their memories, prayers, and support during this time.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Friday, September 26, 2025 at Mullins Memorial, 3654 Palm Beach Boulevard, Fort Myers, Florida 33916.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:45 am on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at St. Andrew Roman Catholic Church, 2628 Del Prado Boulevard S, Cape Coral, FL 33904.  Entombment to follow at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. 

Mullins Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Cape Coral, is entrusted with final.