Florence D. Rotter, nee Phillips, 77, of Park Ridge. Born in Detroit on Jan. 13, 1927. As a child she loved radio dramas, especially “Little Orphan Annie”. When her father died in 1936, in the midst of the Depression, her mother had to use her wits to support the family, including sometimes running a “Blind Pig” (illegal saloon) out of their home. As a young woman, Florence worked for the RFC and became good friends with legendary Detroit broadcaster Joe Gentile. She later worked for the Small Business Administration where she met Maurice Rotter. They married in 1961. They had two children, Mary Elizabeth (Fullerton) and Stephen Joseph, to whom they taught love, kindness, generosity and humor. They set an example for compassion and taking care of others. An avid sports fan, Florence supported the Detroit Lions, Tigers and Redwings. She was a Cubs fan but was willing to watch the White Sox if someone who liked them was around. She was also proud of her Lithuanian heritage. Despite her physical challenges later in life, she was always cheerful, gregarious and eager to learn new things. She made friends wherever she went – her casino and online friends called her “Lucky Flo”. Her Catholic faith sustained her throughout her life. Her grandchildren, Hannah and Sarah, were her pride and joy. She will also be greatly missed by her son-in-law Michael, her daughter-in-law Angela; numerous nieces and nephews; and many friends and neighbors. Prayers Thursday, 9:15 a.m., at Nelson Funeral Home, 820 Talcott Rd. (at Cumberland), Park Ridge, proceeding to Mary, Seat of Wisdom Church for 10 a.m. Mass. Interment Town of Maine Cemetery. Visitation Wednesday, 3 to 9 p.m. Info 847-823-5122 .
