With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Rosemary VanValkenburg, 81, of Walton, NY, who left us peacefully on July 5, 2026. Born on November 28, 1944, in Cannonsville, NY, she was the daughter of Leon and Alice Backus.

She is survived by her loving family, her children; Debra Lambrecht of Walton, Mark (Lillian Cass) VanValkenburg of Walton, Tammy (Richard) Wagner of Trout Creek, Steven (Lynne) VanValkenburg of Trout Creek, and a special niece, Vickilynn Baker of Harpursville. Rosemary is also survived by her grandchildren; Scott, Codey, Karissa, Mark Jr., Connor, Emilee, Layne and Addyson, and great-great grandchildren; Caidyn, Kelsea, Brynlee, Adalynn, Ryker, Bailey, Koltin and Aria. She is survived by her sisters, Janet Johnston of Sanford and Marian Cower of Harpursville, as well as her sister in-laws, Grace Backus of Sidney, and Nancy Backus of Trout Creek.

Rosemary was preceded in death by her parents; Leon and Alice Backus, her brothers; Lloyd, Edward, Andy, James and Robert and her sisters; Ruth, Margie, and Jayne. She was also preceded in death by her great granddaughter, Kaylie Mae Lambrecht.

Rosemary grew up on her parent’s farm in Cannonsville, NY, and later moved to Trout Creek, NY, forced by eminent domain due to the construction of the Cannonsville Reservoir. She grew up surrounded by family and friends and often recalled stories from her time on the farm and with her siblings. Rosemary proudly dedicated her career to the Great American and later the Big M of Walton, where she thrived as a Deli Manager. She was a long-time resident of Trout Creek, NY, and was very proud of the life she created for herself and her family.

Rosemary spent her life spreading joy to those around her. Her warm smile and kind spirit made her a cherished figure in the community, and her talent for baking and cooking brought people together for countless happy occasions. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life – from birdwatching and gardening to playing “Old Maid” with her grandchildren on lazy afternoons and gathering with family for sleigh riding. She always enjoyed processing corn on the cob with her best friend and brother, James Backus. She loved spending time with family, often gathering with them on the porch to share stories and laughter.

Anyone who knew Rosemary, knew what it was to be loved and surrounded by laughter. She was the definition of a jokester, often stealing items from family’s porches, calling people just to make jokes, making “delicious pies” out of apple cores and skins, and much more. Often, you wouldn’t know what would come out of her mouth. All the while, she made sure everyone knew how much she loved them, always saying I love you, and giving kisses goodbye. To know her was to be blessed with lifelong memories to cherish.

In this time of sorrow, let us hold onto the treasured memories of Rosemary’s warmth and the love she shared with all of us. May she rest in peace and may her legacy live on through us.

A graveside service will take place on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at 10:00 AM at the Walton Cemetery, 55 Fancher Avenue, Walton, NY. We invite family and friends to join us in honoring the remarkable woman she was with a luncheon to follow at the Trout Creek Firehall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Rosemary’s memory may be made to the Trout Creek EMS and/or the Trout Creek Community Group (Payable to Pam Gardepe).

Arrangements have been entrusted to Courtney Funeral Home 25 Townsend Street, Walton NY.