Irwin Rothbard Rose

Irwin Rothbard Rose, born February 23, 1929, died peacefully and at home, surrounded by family, ending a life of extraordinary accomplishment, achievement and decency. He lived his life as a proud Jew, a loving husband, father, grandfather and unapologetic American patriot. A man of stature and honor, Irwin Rose was known for his forthright honesty and integrity.

A lifelong Indianapolis resident, Rose attended IPS School 84 and graduated from Shortridge High School in 1945 and his beloved Ohio State University in 1949 where he was a member of the ZBT fraternity and the Ohio Air National Guard. He received his commission as a 2nd Lieutenant in the newly established United States Air Force immediately following the North Korean invasion of South Korea in June 1950 and was assigned to the 88th Air Base Wing at Wright Patterson Air Base, Dayton, Ohio where he served as a procurement officer in the C-130 project. In addition, he helped transform the then state of the art Lockheed F-80 Shooting Star fighter jet into the primary air weapon of the US Air Force.

The very day after his discharge from the Air Force in 1953, Rose was behind the counter serving customers at his family’s retail automotive store on Meridian Street in Indianapolis.

In 1960, Rose established the Company which bears his name, and which is currently in the 62nd year of successful operations. Rose led the firm until his retirement, a few years ago. The Company is engaged in the ownership and management of apartment communities, currently employing 165 associates.

Irwin Rose spent his adult life in civic and philanthropic engagement. He was very proud of his beloved Indianapolis. He was a long time Board Member, Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation, and the 1st President of the IHC endowment. He served for many years in leadership of The Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis.

Rose served as an Indiana Human Rights Commission member. In addition, Rose was a long time Board Member of Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School, and was awarded the prestigious Presidents Medal, by Brebeuf Jesuit.

Rose was a loving family man, married to his beloved wife, Jill, for 64 years. He is survived by his wife, Jill Rose, his son Doug Rose, (Michelle), son Tom Rose, and his daughter, Jane Rose. He is survived by many nieces and nephews, cousins, and wonderful friends. Irwin Rose was cared for by wonderfully compassionate care givers, during a lengthy illness, each of whom became a loving part of his family.  Rose took the greatest pride in all his grandchildren, Jake Hurst, Sophia Hurst, Noam Rose, Yonaton Rose, Udi Rose, Sara Rose, and Emily Rose.

Memorial contributions can be made in memory of Irwin R. Rose, to The Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation Foundation General Fund, 6501 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46260, or to a charity of the donors choosing.

Graveside services will be private.