Peter K. Rosedale
DATELINE:WARWICK
Peter K. Rosedale, of Warwick, died on Wednesday, July 14, 2021 (his 90th birthday). He leaves his wife of 52 years, Beverly (Costantino) Rosedale. Born as Klaus Rosenthal in 1931 in Essen, Germany, he was the son of Otto and Martha Rosedale.
Peter arrived in the U.S. with his parents on March 13, 1939 at the height of the Great Depression and just before World War II. Although only 7 years old in 1938, he always had a vivid recollection of Kristallnacht, seeing his synagogue set on fire and early dismissal from his Jewish school because of a rumor of a possible bombing.
Peter’s parents were unable to find employment in New York City and were urged to relocate to Providence or Boston for better employment opportunities. They chose Providence because the bus fare was $0.45 less than going to Boston, and the $30 that the German government allowed them to take to the U.S. was quickly dwindling.
He graduated from Hope High School, where he served as president of the debating society and was one of two recipients receiving the Anthony Medal for writing the best senior class essay. He graduated from Boston University (College of General Education and the School of Law). After serving in the U.S. Army, he practiced law in Providence for over 40 years and was an active arbitrator in the public sector for the American Arbitration Association. Before and after retirement, he was active as a marriage officiant and performed thousands of civil wedding ceremonies.
He was active in Democratic politics, serving as a member of the Providence City Council, state Representative for 10 years, member of the state Democratic party Executive Committee, 9th Ward chairman, and chairman of the representative and senate district committees.
Peter served as judge of the Providence Municipal Court, chairman of The R.I. Bar Association District Court Bench/Bar committee, chairman of the Board of the former Cranston General Hospital, chairman of the Warwick Board of Canvassers, Board member of the former Temple Beth Israel and President of the former Roger Williams Lodge of B’nai B’rith. He was the only Rhode Islander ever elected as national President of the then junior order of B’nai B’rith, known as the AZA. He was a member of the Aurora Civic Association.
Besides his wife, Peter is survived by his five children, Steven and Aileen (late) of CT; Michael of MA; Nancy and her fiancé Robson De Oliveria of MA; Paul of North Kingstown; and Tom and his wife Tiffany of MA. Peter is also survived by his grandchildren, William, Elora, Brooke, Lily and Avery. He also leaves his beloved Siamese cats, Princess and Mitzie.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 16 at 9:00 a.m. at Shalom Memorial Chapel, 1100 New London Avenue, Cranston. Burial will be at Lincoln Cemetery in Warwick. Shiva will be observed at the Rosedale’s home from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. following services.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to The RI Holocaust Memorial, c/o Jewish Alliance of Greater RI, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, RI 02906 or https://www.jewishallianceri.org/support-the-holocaust-memorial/.
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Shalom Memorial Chapel
1100 New London Ave
Cranston, RI 02920
(401) 463-7771
(877) 463-7771
Fax: (401) 463-7850
ShalomChapel@aol.com
Dear Beverly and family, Our heartfelt condolences go out to you and your family. May the unforgettable memories you shared with Peter bring you comfort.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
With deepest sympathy and love, Janet and Bob
Peter was one of the last true gentlemen…also known around town for his sartorial splendor.. RIP Joe Agostinelli
Beverly,
So sorry to hear of Peter’s passing. My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Dear Beverly, Our hearts are heavy and we are sending hugs across the miles. Peter was a part of our family for over 60 years! He was a wonderful friend and we will keep him in our thoughts always. Treasure the memories and know we are thinking of you and the family at this difficult time.
Heartfelt Condolences to Bev & Family…
Remembering Peter & his quick, dry wit
Many years of memories….
Beverly and Family–So very sorry to hear of Peter’s passing…enjoyed his company and friendship for many years. Always a gentleman and a friend to others. I will keep you in my prayers.
Bev, I’m so very sorry to hear of Peter’s passing. Please accept my sincerest condolences to you, your children, family and friends.
Trent Ferrara
Peter was a very committed public servant representing his community on many levels of elected and appointed positions. He was an accomplished attorney respected by the Courts the Bar and his Clients. My heartfelt sympathy to Beverley and Peter’s children and grandchildren. May he receive many blessings for a life well lived. He was a good man and friend to many.
My deepest condolences to Beverly and family. Peter was a true gentleman and I was honored to know him.
Dear Beverly and family. I was sorry to hear of Peter’s passing. I remember him as a funny, kind, and a good person. I remember he was such a good friend and mentor to Bobby Mauro. Bobby always mentioned that Peter and I shared the same birthday. I was blessed to have known both Peter and Bobby.
My prayers to you and your family.
Joanie Healey
Bev and Family:
So many fond memories of my dear brother-in-law Peter. We shared many good laughs throughout the years and now those great memories will continue to make me smile when I think of you. Until we meet again, fly high with all the angels. Rest In Peace.
Peter Rosedale’s wife, family, and many, many friends from across this country, lost a wonderful man on Wednesday. He was a man of integrity, charm, humor and wit, plus enormous intelligence and good character, to boot. He was also an impeccable dresser who I almost always saw wearing a sports jacket and tie! He was one of a dwindling number of people today who are honest and kind and with a heart so large he was always there to help a friend who might have fallen upon hard times. He kept his friendships current with former schoolmates college roommates, neighbors and business associates – even with some of his former clients. He was the embodiment of the word “mensch.” I don’t think there is a soul on earth who would have an unkind word to say about Peter Rosedale. I am so sad to know of his passing and send my sincere condolences to his wife – my friend Bev – his wonderful kids and grandkids, and to all of his friends who will miss him greatly, as will I. The world has lost a really good and special man.
I have memories of Mr Rosedale when growing up in south providence in the 60’s. He also would assist when ever my family needed him. We lost a good man