Robert Daniel Rose

Col. Robert D. Rose, USAF (Ret.), of Albuquerque, New Mexico, passed away on December 31, 2024. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 51 yrs Patricia Ann Rose.

Robert earned his bachelor’s degree from the United States Military Academy at West Point and later achieved a Doctorate in engineering and physics from the University of Virginia. His distinguished career included serving as an associate professor of physics at the United States Air Force Academy and as director of advanced laser development at the Weapons Laboratory. After retiring from the Air Force, he continued his impactful work as director of the Army Laser Laboratory at Redstone Arsenal. Upon returning to Albuquerque, Robert served as Vice President at BDM and later contributed to AVCO Research Laboratory.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Robert was deeply committed to his faith, family, and community. In addition to leading and loving his family well, Robert was a member of the Knights of Columbus, facilitated Bible studies, and was a practicing member of Annunciation Church for many years. He also dedicated himself to mentoring incarcerated youth through Bible study programs at YDDC and Camino Nuevo, finding great purpose in guiding and supporting them.

Robert is survived by his daughter, Margaret White, and husband Charles of Tennessee; his sons, Robert and wife Rosemary, John and wife Virginia, and Louis and wife Karen of Albuquerque; 3 nieces and 3 nephews; 11 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren.

Col. Rose’s legacy is one of service—to his Savior, his family, his country, and those in need of guidance and mentorship. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

A mass in Col. Robert’s honor will be held at Our Lady of the Annunciation Catholic Church at 2621 Vermont St NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110 on Thursday February 6th at 8:30am followed by a reception in Magdalena Hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Give - Faith Comes By Hearing