Born on May 13, 1940, to the late Agnes Strelec Kucera and Joe V. Kucera, Rose grew up on the family farm alongside her four brothers, helping to raise turkeys and farm cotton. These early experiences instilled in her a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for family.

After graduating from Edna High School in 1958, Rose pursued a career in nursing, earning her LVN license from Yoakum Catholic Vocational School of Nursing. On January 31, 1959, she married the love of her life, Joe Tupa Jr. Together, they built a beautiful life in Ganado, Texas, raising three children—Michael, Melinda, and Mark.

From 1971 to 1984, Rose and Joe owned and operated Tupa’s Grocery and Supply, serving their community with hard work and heart. Following the store’s closure, they relocated their trucking business to McGehee, Arkansas, where they spent 20 wonderful years together.

Rose was a gifted seamstress and a talented baker, widely known for her delicious pies and her famous cheese rolls. Her kitchen was a place of comfort, and anyone who visited the Tupa home knew they wouldn’t leave hungry.

After Joe’s passing, Rose was blessed to reconnect with a high school friend, Tony Piegsa. They were married and shared ten years together.

Rose is preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Joe Tupa Jr.; her in-laws, Albina Janecka Tupa and Joe E. Tupa Sr.; her second husband, Tony Piegsa; her brothers, Leo and Johnny Kucera; and her “favorite” son-in-law, James ‘JR’ Morris.

She is survived by her children: Michael Tupa (Karen), Melinda Tupa- Morris, and Mark Tupa (Vicki). She was the proud Nana to eight grandchildren: Jonathon Tupa (Kacey), Amy Tupa, Blane Tupa (Caleigh), Barrett Morris (Keely), Brice Morris (Lauren), Brittney McGehee (Brett), Pierce Tupa, and Sheridan Tupa (Stephen). She also leaves behind six great-grandchildren—with two more on the way—who will grow up hearing stories about their loving Nana.

Pallbearers will be her grandsons: Barrett and Brice Morris, Jonathon, Blane, and Pierce Tupa, and nephews Scotty, Randy, and Jason Kucera.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Ganado Funeral Home. A Rosary will be recited at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, 108 6th St, Ganado, Texas, followed by a funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Assumption Catholic Cemetery, 470 Cemetery Rd, Ganado, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church.

Rose’s legacy of love, generosity, and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her presence filled every room with joy, and her memory will be cherished always.

Services are entrusted to the Todish family of Ganado & Slavik Funeral Homes.