Bryan D. Rose

Bryan David Rose, age 48 of Elkhart, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Elkhart General Hospital. Bryan was born March 3, 1978 in Rensselaer, Indiana. He attended South Newton High School and later graduated from Millard North High School in Omaha, Nebraska. On November 18, 2018, he married Heidi Hartsell and together they enjoyed over seven years of fun, friendship and marriage.

Heidi survives, along with his children, Hannah (Blake) Williamson, Emma (Evan) Rose, Connor Rose, Ethinn Rose and Zaine Tilton. Bryan is also survived by his mother, Brenda Griffin, his siblings Jason (Heather) Rose, Adam (Geneva) Rose, Tyler Griffin and his stepsiblings Jason (Patricia) Dewees and Nicole Bashor, along with many extended members of the family, including his three dogs, “Champ,” “Luna,” and “Remi.” Bryan was also eagerly awaiting the arrival of his first grandchild, due in September of 2026. He was preceded in death by his father and stepmother, Vernon & Nina Rose.

Bryan worked for several years as a Quality Control Manager with Dexter Axle, where he was respected by his coworkers and office staff alike. He took pride in doing things the right way and was always looking for opportunities to learn more, earn additional certifications, and improve his skills. Whether at work or at home, Bryan believed in giving his best effort and often encouraged others with a phrase he lived by “Don’t be a quitter.”

Outside of work, Bryan rarely sat still for long. He was extremely handy and could fix just about anything, especially after Heidi accidentally broke it. He loved working with his hands and was the person family and friends called when something needed repaired, figured out, or built. He was also an excellent cook whose beef and noodles, homemade cinnamon rolls, scratch-made sourdough bread, and desserts quickly became family favorites. Nobody ever left Bryan's table hungry.

Bryan had a larger-than-life personality and a sense of humor that could brighten any room. He loved making people laugh and never missed an opportunity to tell a joke, share a story, or keep a conversation entertaining. He will be remembered as a loyal friend and devoted family man who valued relationships above all else and made sure the people he loved knew it. He spoke with his children daily, not because he had to, but because he genuinely wanted to know how they were doing and be part of their lives. He also loved music of all kinds and always had a playlist playing, whether he was working, cooking, or spending time with family.

He was a die-hard football fan who faithfully cheered for the Chicago Bears and Nebraska Cornhuskers through the highs, the lows, and the seasons that required a little extra patience. Bryan was also a gifted athlete and an all-star rugby player during his high school years, and his love of sports remained with him throughout his life.

More than anything, Bryan loved his family. Holidays were among his favorite times of the year as he and Heidi opened their home and gathered family and friends to celebrate. Bryan was especially excited to become a grandfather for the first time this year. While his passing leaves a void that can never be filled, his family finds comfort knowing that he is reunited with his father, Vernon, who was not only his dad but also his best friend.

A private celebration of Bryan’s life will be held at a later time. Cruz Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Osceola has been entrusted with his care.

In his memory, donations may be made to the Indiana University School of Medicine Krannert Cardiovascular Research Center. To light a virtual candle, share a story of Bryan’s life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please follow the links provided on the Guestbook tab above.

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