Rose Marie (Gransberry) Nickelson Massett

Rose (Gransberry) Nickelson Massett
Rose Marie Massett 75 of Missoula joined her Heavenly Father on Friday Dec. 22, while surrounded by her children. She was born in Anaconda to Robert Gransberry and Helen Massett-Gransberry.
As a child she spent many happy hours with aunts, uncles and cousins in Anaconda, Seattle, Kalispell and Bozeman. It was in Bozeman that she met and married our Dad, Howard Nickelson. Mom often said, “We were kids, raising kids” but hard work and stubborn determination paved the way. Mom and Dad divorced after spending 18 years together, but always remained friends.
Rose was smart and hardworking. She enjoyed work and the people she worked with. She held a variety of positions throughout her career with Mountain Bell, Blackfoot Telephone and Missoula County 9-1-1, where she was proud to have served as one of Missoula’s first dispatchers. She later accepted a position with the State, working for the Title & Registration Bureau in Deer Lodge. She retired in 2004 and returned to Missoula to be near her children and grandchildren
Rose enjoyed camping, travel, music, sewing, crafts and reading. She had a flare for decorating and an addiction to collecting Fiesta Ware. She loved all animals but elephants were her favorite.
Above all she was a loving and dedicated mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, Rose always put the needs of her family first.
Survivors include her children; Todd Nickelson, Ross Nickelson, and Leslee Everard (Lynn) of Missoula. Her brother Sam Freese of Anaconda. Seven grandchildren, two great grandchildren and two nephews, along with many lifelong friends.
The family would especially like to thank Partners Hospice for their compassionate care.
Cremation has taken place under the direction of Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. The always practical Rose, requested that no services were to be held. Her family will gather this spring in Anaconda to celebrate her life.