Obituary
In Loving Memory of Rosa Lee Scharfen
February 7, 1938 – July 9, 2025
Rosa Lee Scharfen of Lake Winnebago, Missouri – a gentle and loving soul with a big heart, passed away peacefully on July 9th after a courageous battle with chronic lung disease.
Born in 1938 to Walter and Louise Werneke, Rosa Lee was raised on a small farm in Knob Noster, Missouri, where her kind spirit was shaped in a one-room schoolhouse.
In her early years, Rosa Lee worked as a waitress in cafes and diners across Knob Noster, Warrensburg, and Sedalia. Later she served as a dispatcher for the Knob Noster Police Department and sold auto insurance at Whiteman Air Force Base, where she met the love of her life, Richard Scharfen. They recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary, a testament to their enduring love.
She had a remarkable life, filled with love, joy, and Elvis Presley music. A proud election judge for 40 years and an Avon Representative for over 50, although her family lovingly joked that she may have been her own best customer!
A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Rosa Lee lit up in the presence of her seven grandchildren and great-granddaughter, with one more great-grandbaby due in September. She never passed up snapping photos at every family gathering or a chance to brag about her grandkids.
Rosa Lee loved hummingbirds, plants, flowers, fishing, boat rides and watching sunsets at the lake. She enjoyed mushroom hunting and camping at Knob Noster State Park and watching soap operas – The Young and the Restless and General Hospital were her favorites. And celebrating with her big, close-knit family at reunions and Christmas parties always brought her much joy.
She cherished traveling the world with her family. Some of her favorite places were Las Vegas, England, France, Italy, and taking cruises through Alaska, Russia, Europe, and the Caribbean.
She was known for many things – her famous deviled eggs, potato salad, and angel food cake, her generous heart, and her caring soul. She even won a boat at the Argosy Casino one time, a testament to her good fortune and luck which often carried over to bingo parlors and slot machines!
Rosa Lee was a devoted Royals fan, cheering them on from her living room or attending games at The K. She even attended the 1985 World Series – where she famously joined her family during the on-field celebration after Game 7 to celebrate their world championship!
Above all, Rosa Lee’s greatest pride and joy was her family. She adored her children – Tammy (Randy) Chaffin, Michelle (Steve) Long, and John (Kristin) Scharfen. Her grandchildren—Brandon Chaffin, Andrew Long, Jessica Long, Kendall Scharfen, Melana Scharfen, and Tatum Scharfen meant the world to her, as did her great-granddaughter Aurora Long. She leaves behind her loving sister Joyce (Ron) Tebbenkamp. She lit up in their presence and never missed a chance to show her love and they adored her in return.
She is preceded in death by her beloved daughter Angie and grandson Jared Chaffin. Though they are deeply missed, we find comfort in the reunion they now share.
Services will be held Thursday, July 17th at 1:30 p.m. at Langsford Funeral Home in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, with burial to follow at Lee’s Summit Historical Cemetery.
Heaven is real, time is short, but eternity is forever. Now, Rosa Lee is resting in that beautiful place. Her light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew her.
Condolences
Services
Lee’s Summit, MO 64063
I love you forever my sweet grandma!❤️🕊️
She sounds like a lovely woman who enjoyed life. I pray your memories of her will comfort you. Love Susan
Rose was loved by everyone and a great benefit to the city and to our neighborhood. She will be missed by all who knew her and always remembered by those who loved her.
I am so sorry for your loss, your family will be in my prayers.
Rose was such a sweet lady. She is with Jesus and will never be sick again. Our deepest sympathy for your loss.
I had the privilege of meeting Rose at her son’s home, next to mine at a summer gathering. She was a very friendly and kind lady to know. She truly lived a great life, enjoying so many adventures and varied interests; but, most of all, she was a loving, caring, and happy lady. ..She used her time and talents in making this a better world and, truly, she touched many hearts in her loving concern and care for others. We Thank God for the Gift of Rose! May she rest in peace in God’s loving embrace….and, for you, Her Loved Ones…”May God shelter you in the wings of His Love!”
Will always remember her laugh and strong Missouri accent! She made great potato salad too! Rest in peace with Angie.
We praise Jesus for freeing dear Rosa from her suffering. We pray peace for Richard and her loving family for their loss.
We have many years of fond memories and will cherish those, especially the cul-de-sac Halloween’s.
With sympathy
Greg & Bonnie
I’ve enjoyed my friendship with Rosa Lee for many years when my brother, Steve married into her family. My favorite memories are the Viking trips that I got to take with her. Also the day my mom passed away she went to spend time with her. She will be greatly missed.
Rosa Lee was my go to person for Avon products. Always kind in every way. Remember way back when we had bingo at the club. She was always the one to beat. She suffered for a long time and bravely stood at your side. Hope knowing she is at peace now is comforting to you and the family.
Rosa Lee has been our neighbor for years. She was so kind and loving to everyone. Dick and she had a beautiful love story! May she rest peacefully now, free of suffering.