MICHAEL J. ROSEN

     Michael John Rosen, 64, a Lieutenant in the Holden Fire Department, passed away peacefully on Tuesday evening, August 29, 2017 at UMass Memorial Medical Center-University Campus, Worcester, after an extended illness. Born in Boston and raised in Winchendon, Mike was the son of Theodore and Dorothy (Alex) Rosen and lived in Holden for more than 40 years.

He graduated from the New York Military Academy, Cornwall, NY in 1971 and Norwich University, Vermont in 1975.  He honorably served his country in the U.S. Air Force Reserves for 22 years retiring as a Major. Mike’s compassion led him to a career in health care that included over 30 years as a Registered Nurse at St. Vincent’s Medical Center specializing in post-surgical recovery.

Mike’s lifelong devotion to his community led to his involvement as a member of the Holden Fire Department’s Call Organization starting in 1978. He retired as a Lieutenant.  After years as a Boy Scout of America volunteer he started the Fire Explorer Post with the Holden Fire Department in 2003. He stayed on as a leader until 2014. In 2007, he received the Massachusetts Community Service Award from Governor Deval Patrick for his outstanding leadership with the Holden Fire Department and its Explorer program. “This is not just firefighter training”, Mike told the Explorer members, “It’s leadership, teamwork and responsibility.”

Mikes’ life was centered on helping others.  He was a member of St. George’s Church in Worcester and also attended St. Joseph’s Abbey in Spencer. He was a doting grandfather to his grandson, Lucas and will be remembered for many things, especially his service to the community.

He leaves his devoted daughter, Jessica H. Rosen and her son, Lucas whom Mike considered his “best bud” and her fiancé, Justin Stevens, all of Chelmsford; his son, Gregory Rosen of Holden; his sister, Helen Kotilainen of Bolton; three brothers, Stephen  and his wife, Barbara of Worcester, Kenneth of Milton and Paul of Worcester; many nephews and nieces.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Mike’s family from 5 to 8 pm on Tuesday, September 5 at the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 am on Wednesday, September 6, at St. George Church, 38 Brattle Street, Worcester. Interment will be held privately at Worcester County Memorial Park, 217 Richards Ave., Paxton.  Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to, the Holden Firefighters Association, c/o the Holden Fire Department, 1370 Main Street, Holden, MA 01520.