Roselene Carey, 86, passed away on Tuesday July 7, 2026, at Independence Rehabilitation Center in Independence, Iowa following a short illness. Visitation will be from 4:00-6:00 PM on Wednesday July 15, 2026 at the Geilenfeld-Buehner Funeral home in Oelwein.  Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 AM on Thursday July 16, 2026 at Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Fayette.  Visitation will be held at the church from 9:30-10:30 AM, before the service.  Interment will be in Woodlawn cemetery at Oelwein.  Memorials may be directed to the family for a later designation.  She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Roselene Eleanor Carey was born on August 23,1939, on her family farm near Protivin, Iowa.  She was the daughter of Louis W. and Pauline K. (Hubka) Strnad.  She graduated from Rudolphinum High School in Protivin.  While working at Pirillo’s Sportsman's Club in Oelwein, she met Dennis Carey, and they were united in marriage on April 8, 1967. 

Together they made their home in Maynard, IA where they raised four children.  Over the years, Rose was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother.  She operated a daycare out of her home for several years, caring for many children in the Maynard area, and also worked seasonally at Dekalb in Oelwein.  She enjoyed gardening, baking, crafting, and camping.  During retirement, she and Dennis spent winters in Texas, enjoying time spent with their “winter Texan” friends.  In recent months, she lived at Prairie Hills in Independence. 

For more than 50 years, she was a devout member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Fayette, Iowa. Her faith was a steady anchor throughout her life, guiding her in how she cared for others and lived with gratitude and humility.

Left to celebrate Rose’s life are her children: Kathy Carey of Independence, Karen (Brent) Mager of Oelwein, Kevin Carey of Anamosa, and Kimberly (Brian) Reidy of Independence; her grandchildren: Seraphina Carey of Iowa City, Grace Reidy of Independence, Myles Reidy of Independence, and Andrew Carey of Anamosa; her sister: Marvelene (Les) Strnad of Minor Hill, TN.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Dennis in 2024; her brother Alvin Strnad; her sister Louise Wunder, and sister in-law Beverly Strnad.