Rosemary Szalach

Rosemary Szalach (née Bielec), age 92, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2026.

Rosemary, known to many as “Rooney,” was born in Syracuse, New York on Jan 2, 1934, where she spent much of her life before moving to Fort Myers, Florida. In her later years, she moved to Orlando to live with her daughter and son-in-law.

She worked for many years as a beautician, a profession that suited her well. Rosemary had a natural gift for style, always able to put together clothing in a way that looked effortlessly elegant. Though she was tiny in stature, she had a quiet strength and a deeply caring nature. Helping others came second nature to Rosemary, and that kindness left a lasting impression on the people around her.

She had a lifelong love of music and in her younger years was an incredible dancer. She enjoyed musicals and artists like Elvis and ABBA. Sharing music together created many special memories with her daughter, including attending concerts and shows together. She also had a well-known love of sweets. Dessert was rarely optional for Rosemary, and those who knew her often smiled at how quickly she could say “yes” to cake, ice cream, or chocolate.

Rosemary was preceded in death by her husband, John Szalach, and her longtime companion, Joseph Alfonsetti, along with her six brothers and sisters.

She is survived by her daughter, Karen (Szalach) Prueitt; her son-in-law, Derek Prueitt; her granddaughter, Ayla Prueitt; Joseph’s daughter, Linda Russell, and family; and many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.

Rosemary will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, March 21st from 11am to 12pm at Newcomer Funeral home, 895 S. Goldenrod Rd, Orlando, Fl 32822, with a service to follow at noon. Casual dress is encouraged.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in her memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando, reflecting two causes she cared deeply about.