Three people standing outdoors, smiling and enjoying each other's company. The man on the left is pointing at the camera, the man in the middle has his arm around the woman on the right, who has red hair and is touching her neck. The background shows green trees.

IN LOVING MEMORY

David John Rose, I (Sr.)

BORN

May 12, 1951

PASSED

November 1, 2022

RESIDED

Ashland, OH

David John Rose I, 71, of Ashland, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on November 1, 2022, leaving behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and kindness.

David was a devoted father, brother, and friend whose warm smile and gentle heart touched the lives of many. He had a profound passion for life, finding joy in the simple pleasures – reading, music, writing, and long walks through the serene landscapes he so admired.

Born on May 12, 1951, David was not only a man of words but also a man of action. For the majority of his life, he dedicated himself to the education of others as a revered teacher in the Mansfield, Ohio, school district. His students held him in high esteem, and his unwavering commitment to their growth earned him accolades such as "Teacher of the Year" and numerous other awards. Many of those students, now adults, credit his influence as one of the most meaningful in their lives. David's impact as an educator will resonate through generations to come.

Beyond his passion for teaching, David possessed a remarkable talent for music. He was an outstanding pianist and could effortlessly weave melodies on a variety of musical instruments. His music was a reflection of his soul, resonating with all who had the privilege of hearing it. He had a gift for bringing peace and joy into a room without saying a word—just by sitting at a piano.

But to me—his son—he was so much more than all of that. He was my biggest supporter, the person who believed in me from the very beginning. When I was building DJR Authentication, he was there every step of the way, encouraging me, grounding me, reminding me that I had something real to offer. His quiet strength, thoughtful advice, and unwavering love gave me the courage to pursue my vision. Without him, I truly don’t think any of this would exist. He didn’t just cheer me on—he helped lay the foundation. He believed in me long before the world did, and even before I believed in myself—and that belief changed everything.

David is survived by his son, David J. Rose II of Charleston, SC; his brother, Daniel C. Rose of Nashville, TN; his sister, Rebecca “Becky” E. Rose Michael of Columbus, OH; and his stepson, Christopher D. Weidinger of Charleston, SC, whom he loved like his own. David and Chris shared a deep bond—especially through their mutual love of art, long talks, and visits to galleries, museums, and quiet creative spaces they both cherished. He is also survived by other cherished family members and friends.

At David's request, no formal services were held. Instead, his memory will be celebrated through the echoes of his music, the pages of his favorite books, and the beauty of the world he so appreciated. His life wasn’t measured by titles or possessions, but by the love he gave, the lessons he taught, and the quiet strength he carried into every room.

In honor of his lifelong love for reading and learning, the family kindly requests that donations be directed to the Ashland Public Library. By supporting the library, we continue David's legacy and share his passion for knowledge and the written word with future generations.

David John Rose, I, will forever be remembered for his kindness, his dedication, and the music he brought into our lives. As his son, I will carry his spirit with me in every step I take—from the work I do to the man I strive to become.

He was my foundation, my compass, and my calm in every storm.

Rest in peace, Dad.

“If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.”
— Henry David Thoreau
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