Rosemarie Madelyn “Rose” Cherry (née Martini) was the devoted wife of Canadian hockey legend Don Cherry, known for her quiet strength and deep compassion. While Don made headlines on the ice and on TV, Rosemarie Cherry was the heart of the Cherry family — a woman who moved over 50 times to support her husband’s hockey career, and whose name now lives on through children’s charities and tributes.
Early Life & Marriage
Born: December 17, 1935
Place: Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
Marriage: April 7, 1956 to Don Cherry
Rosemarie met Don Cherry when he was playing in the American Hockey League with the Hershey Bears. Their romance quickly grew into a lasting marriage that would span over 40 years. As Don’s coaching and broadcasting career took off, Rosemarie stood by him, often relocating multiple times per season — a role she embraced with strength and love.
Family & Personal Life
Children: Cindy Cherry and Tim Cherry
Health Challenge: In 1979, when Tim needed a kidney transplant, Cindy donated hers — a moving family story of courage and love.
Rosemarie was known as a deeply devoted mother. Her family describes her as the “rock” who kept things grounded while Don focused on hockey.
Death & Legacy
Date of Death: June 1, 1997
Cause: Liver cancer
Age at death: 61
After Rosemarie passed away, Don Cherry honored her memory by opening Rose Cherry’s Home for Kids, a care center for children with life-limiting conditions. It was later renamed The Darling Home for Kids and continues to serve Canadian families in need.
Tributes and Honors
Rose Cherry Place: A street in Mississauga, Ontario named in her honor
Canadian Women’s Hockey Team Tribute: In 1997, players wore roses on their jerseys in tribute to Rosemarie during international games.
Her Impact on Don Cherry
Don has often spoken emotionally about the love of his life. He credits her with being his grounding force and moral compass. Her influence helped shape his charitable efforts and emotional support for children’s causes across Canada.
FAQ
Who was Rosemarie Cherry?
She was the wife of Don Cherry, mother of two, and the inspiration behind children’s charity work in Canada.
When did Rosemarie Cherry die?
She passed away from liver cancer on June 1, 1997, at the age of 61.
What is Rose Cherry’s Home for Kids?
A children’s hospice founded by Don Cherry in her memory, now known as The Darling Home for Kids in Milton, Ontario.
Did Rosemarie Cherry have children?
Yes. She and Don had two children: Cindy Cherry and Tim Cherry.
Where is Rose Cherry honored?
She has a street named after her — Rose Cherry Place — in Mississauga, Ontario, and has received tribute from Team Canada’s Women’s Hockey Team.
Final Thoughts
Rosemarie Cherry’s life was quiet yet powerful. She supported Don Cherry not just as a wife, but as a foundation for his family and career. Her memory lives on through heartfelt charitable efforts and the lives of children she continues to help through the home named in her honor. Whether you’re a hockey fan or someone looking to understand the power of family love and legacy, Rosemarie Cherry’s story deserves to be told — and remembered.