Joshua Devin Rose passed away at Crossing Rivers Health Center in Prairie Du Chien, Wisconsin on Saturday, October 31, 2026, after courageously facing medical challenges from a stroke he suffered in June.

Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 28, 2026, at Helms Funeral Home, 306 E. Water St., Decorah, Iowa, with Pastor Peter Kowitz presiding. Burial will be held at a later date.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service at Helms Funeral Home on Saturday.

In Lieu of flowers, memorials may go to Joshua's wife, Lynette Matter-Rose, at P.O. Box 933, Monona, Iowa 52159.

Josh was born on May 30, 1970, in Richmond, Virginia to Cherie Marsh and Bill Rose. From an early age, Josh exhibited an extraordinary ability to connect with others, a gift that would define his life and relationships. No one remained a stranger for long in Josh’s presences, his infectious personality and playful spirit welcomed all he came in contact with.

Josh went to school at Jamesville-DeWitt Highschool in Syracuse, New York. He later pursued his passion for learning at Stephen F Austin State University in Texas, where he earned his bachelor’s degree. His career path was varied as his interests, teaching school in Virginia and Minnesota, working in customer service and helped his wife Lynette with Traveling with the Roses Travel Agency. In every role, Josh’s interest in others and his commitment to service shone throughout.

Josh married Lea Ann Rankin. Through this marriage, his sons were born. Tristan Alexander and Kipling Walter Alan. They were Josh’s pride and joy. Josh’s face would light up when he talked about or was with them. They were his main joy in life. 

Josh then found Love again with Lynette Emma Matter. Together they build a life with travel laughter, and mutual support for each other. Josh also embraced Lynette’ s extended family but very much cherished his relationship with her parents. Not only was Josh a loving father but also a very caring Uncle to Casper and Darien.

A true Renaissance man, Josh’s interests ranged from avidly reading a variety of subjects to crafting poetry, a passion that started very young. He was a dedicated sports fan, especially his Minnesota Vikings, and relished sharing this enthusiasm with everyone around him. He loved all his cats and dogs. Yet it was his simple moments – telling stories, making others laugh, and spending time with his loved ones, especially Tristan and Kipling. – that Josh found his greatest Joy.

Josh is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Lynette, his Sons, Tristan (Payton Beaumont) and Kipling Rose. His parents Bill Rose (Linda Gerstley) and Cherie Marsh. His Sisters Rachael and Shayna Rose. His Brother in Laws, Lincoln Matter and Lance (Lori) Matter. His Nieces and Nephews – Casper Hilmerson and Darien Hilmerson, Erik Matter, Anna (Savon) Love, and Leif Matter, and countless uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends and family members whose lives he touched.

Josh is preceded in death by his grandparents, Joyce and Larry O’Neil, Gladys and Eddie Rose, his stepfather – Alan Marsh, His mother in law Lois Matter, father in law Richard Matter and his uncle Rodney O’Neil.

Even after his life here was over, he helped others through organ donation.