Rosemary Elaine Brooking

Rosemary “Rose” Elaine Brooking, age 65, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2026, at her home in Austin, Texas. Known for her infectious personality and generous heart, Rose left an indelible mark on everyone she met. A Life of Joy and Connection Born on January 28, 1961, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Rose was the youngest of five children born to John and Helen Thornton. As the baby of the family, she was affectionately called “The Bonus” by her father—a title she carried with pride. Rose attended Regis High School and later graduated from North High School in 1979. Rose’s warmth and spirit earned her a lifetime of deep friendships. She had a rare gift for making people feel seen and loved - a quality that followed her when she moved to Austin, Texas, in 1981. Rose’s high-school friend Kristin wrote of these years: “We met as teenagers in Eau Claire and went to rival high schools. I moved to Texas in 1979 and eventually settled in Austin. Rose couldn’t stand how much fun I was having, so she decided that I should fly up there and drive down in her Datsun-which died in the driveway when we got here. So many years of laughter and celebrations together. She introduced me to my husband of 24 years. Love you, Rosie!” Love and Adventure In the 1990’s and early 2000’s Rose was a force to reckon with - living in the Barton Springs area and having recently met the love of her life, Rob. She excelled in both her career and her social connections. Through the Successful Marketing Association networking group, she made life-long friends with her winning personality. She had many parties at the “Skyline Cantina” a nickname for her home at the time overlooking the sparkling Austin skyline - Dancing the night away to Cheryl Crow’s smash hit, All I Wanna Do is Have Some Fun. Rose and Rob were married in April 1996 and built a beautiful life together. They were true partners in every sense and made their home in north Austin. They became expert gardeners, creating a backyard oasis that was a marvel to anyone they entertained. When they weren't tending to their home, they were often found on the water. Rose and Rob loved boating and shared many of their happiest weekends together on Lake Travis near Austin. One of the precious memories of Rose happened on a sunset boat ride on the Pedernales River near Lake Travis. Having gotten caught up in a wicked thunderstorm, speeding for cover, the crew later found that we had been caught in tornadic activity all around the area while waiting out the storm. Forever after, her nickname became “Tornado Rose.” A beloved name that suited her well; it continues in our hearts and minds to this day. Rose was a lifelong lover of dogs and never shied away from helping any time one was in need. She found great fulfillment in her work with a boxer rescue group, where she dedicated her time to transporting boxers to their forever homes. She leaves behind her beloved dog, Bentley. Family and Legacy Rose is survived by her devoted husband, Rob Brooking; her sisters, Mary (Dan) Hanson of Richardson, TX, and Patty (Larry) Gabus of Eau Claire, WI; and her sister-in-law, Kit Brooking. She is further survived by several nieces and nephews who will dearly miss their aunt’s laughter and spirit. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Helen Thornton; her sister, Janet Oehme; and her brother, John Thornton. A private family remembrance will be held at a later date.

Rosemary Elaine Brooking

January 28, 1961 - February 16, 2026