Rose Anna H. Bradford

Rose Anna H. Bradford, age 86, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2026 at Abbott Northwestern Hospital due to complications from colon cancer.

Born to Agnes (Landa) and Louis Hlinsky, she grew up with her younger brother Kenny on a dairy farm in Glenwood, MN where she first learned the values of Catholic faith, family, and hard work. She was the first person in her family to attend college at St. Cloud State University followed by the University of Minnesota. At the age of 20, she began her nearly six decade highly successful career in telecommunication sales.

On November 9th, 1963, Rose Anna was united in marriage to Thomas (Tom) Bradford at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Glenwood, MN. They spent 43 wonderful years together, creating a beautiful life with their two children before he passed away in 2006. They built their first home in Wayzata, and then moved to St. Louis, MO and Philadelphia, PA due to Tom’s job. Known for always prioritizing quality time with their Landa and Bradford siblings and cousins, and making new lifelong friends wherever they lived, they brought joy and laughter to all those around. They especially loved to entertain, play bridge, watch and attend sporting events, relax on Lake Latoka with extended family, and enjoy beach vacations. Later in life, they wintered in Estero, FL and loved the beautiful beaches and spending time with dear friends.

Rose Anna was known for many talents and skills, including her green thumb, mentorship to colleagues, party hosting, and tremendous work ethic. She opened a plant business in her basement and shared tips on how to help plants thrive. She loved to attend book club, play mahjong, and travel. After her retirement, she traveled to Italy and the Czech Republic with Michele’s family. She served as a “super” volunteer at Holy Name Church in varying roles over many decades, including eucharistic minister and head sacristan, as well as at Sharing and Caring Hands. She also volunteered as President of her homeowner’s association in Orono for over 15 years, renewing her term even after her cancer diagnosis in 2023. She spent countless hours walking the community and ensuring that every project reflected quality workmanship at the best possible value. Most of all, her pride and dedication to her two daughters and five grandchildren was remarkable. She attended every birthday celebration, first communion, confirmation, and graduation, and many of their sporting events until she was unable to travel.

Rose Anna is welcomed in Heaven by her husband Tom, her parents, her sisters in law Gerry Bradford, JoAnn Bradford, and Dorothy Quist, and her brothers in law Robert (“Bud”) Bradford, Jim Bradford, and Mick Quist. Missing her are her brother Kenny Hlinsky, daughters Michele Bradford (Chris Niedland) of Wayne, PA and Heather Bradford (Jeff Gilbert) of Kirkland, WA, her five grandchildren, Audrey and Alex Niedland and Aidan, Tucker, and Greta Gilbert, along with many nieces and nephews, and countless other loving friends and family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 7th, 2026 at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church, 155 County Road 24, Wayzata with reception to follow. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at church. Memorials requested to Sharing and Caring Hands.