It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Rosemarie Agnes Ida Hayes, née Paul — a devoted mother, Oma, great-grandmother, and the unwavering foundation of her family. Rosemarie, age 87, passed peacefully on February 4, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She leaves behind a legacy defined by resilience, strength, humor, and fierce, protective love.   Born on December 19, 1938, in Striegau, Germany, to Willy Kurt Paul and Lina Meta Paul, Rosemarie came of age during one of the most turbulent periods in modern history. Growing up in Germany during World War II, Rosemarie witnessed history in its most difficult form. She carried stories from those years that reflected both hardship and extraordinary resilience. Those early experiences shaped the strength and independence that would define her life.   On July 4, 1964, she married Dethanial Charles Hayes in Schwimbach, Germany. In 1966, she relocated to the United States, where she forged her own path with determination and resolve, building a home and future for her family.   Rosemarie was the steady rock of her family — the safe place, the first phone call, and the voice of wisdom. To her granddaughters, she was not only an Oma, but a best friend.   She had an uncanny intuition — a sixth sense that guided not only her own life but the lives of those around her. From her came strength, tenacity, independence, and a spirited German fire that could light up any room. She possessed a spitfire personality and a sharp, sarcastic sense of humor. Even in life’s most serious moments, she could deliver a perfectly timed remark that reminded everyone to keep going.   Her compassion extended beyond her own home. Rosemarie was always thinking of others. Helping came naturally to her. She showed up quietly and consistently, offering support without ever asking for recognition.   Her love for animals was a constant thread throughout her life. She found special joy in birds — especially hummingbirds, which she watched with fascination, and penguins, which always brought a smile to her face. Animals were drawn to her gentle but steady presence, and she treasured them deeply.Rosemarie also found peace and pride in tending to her garden. Flowers were more than just something beautiful to look at — they were something she nurtured, cared for, and brought to life with her own hands. She took quiet joy in watching things grow, in planting with intention, and in creating spaces filled with color and life. Her gardens reflected her spirit — resilient, vibrant, and lovingly tended. Whether it was a single bloom or an entire bed of flowers, she found comfort in cultivating beauty around her.   She made sure no one ever left her home hungry — whether for food, comfort, or advice. Her table was full, her wisdom honest, and her love unwavering. Every joy, accomplishment, and heartbreak in her family’s life found its way first to her. She was the shoulder to lean on, the voice of reason, the one who could bring laughter in difficult moments — and, when needed, a firm but loving correction.Her family stands together today because of the foundation she built. The resilience she embodied lives on in her children and grandchildren. Her strength, her stories, her humor, and her love will continue to shape generations to come.  Rosemarie was preceded in death by her parents, Willy Kurt Paul and Lina Meta Paul; her brothers, Kurt Deiter Paul and Manfred Paul; and her husband, Dethanial Charles Hayes.   She is survived by her children: Cotty (Sherrey Heisler) Hayes; Birgitt “Gitty” (John) Betts; Petra (Bill) Nagel; and Richard (Supansa) Hayes; her 2 stepdaughters; her beloved granddaughters Autumn (Derk) Miller and Lina (Mark) Betts-Shaw; 5 additional grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and her 5 nephews and their families in Germany.   A service to honor and celebrate Rosemarie's life will be held on Thursday, February 12th at 11:30 AM at All Veterans Funeral Home, 1020 East Filmore Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80907. A viewing will take place prior to the service at 11:00 AM.    Though she is no longer physically with us, the values she instilled and the bond she created will remain unshaken — a lasting testament to the life she lived and the love she gave. Sometimes, even "tough cookies crumble."