From a Facebook Post from the Swordfish Grill & Tiki:
Rosie’s Big Send Off
Cortez is saying goodbye to one of its cherished residents. Our beloved Rose Lipke is off to Arkansas, trading the soothing salt air for the charm of mountain life. But before she embarks on this new adventure, we’re throwing her a send-off that embodies the spirit of Cortez.
Mark your calendars for Sunday, August 31st, at 4 PM! Join us at Swordfish for cold drinks, delectable food, live music, and stories that capture the heart of our community. While they might not grace the pages of history, these anecdotes hold a special place in our hearts.
Bring your hugs, laughter, and perhaps a few tissues. Let’s send Rosie off with the warmth and joy she deserves, just as she came into the world—surrounded by friends, family, and a splash of delightful chaos.
Shoes not required.
More About Rosie! (from various sources!)
Rose Lipke, born at Sarasota Memorial Hospital and raised in the historic fishing village of Cortez, has made a significant impact as a beloved local artist, sign painter, and advocate for preserving Cortez’s working waterfront culture. A former board member of FISH (Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage) and chair of the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, she has played a pivotal role in one of the region’s largest heritage events, showcasing its strong financial health in 2019.
Rosie has crafted thousands of hand-painted signs, logos, murals, and sculptures for local businesses like Cortez Kitchen, Swordfish Grill & Tiki, and Slicker’s Eatery. From 2003, she worked with Feld Entertainment as a Lead Scenic Artist, contributing to productions including Disney on Ice/Live and Ringling Bros. She also sculpted “Old Hitler,” a quirky 25-foot shark figure that became a landmark in Cortez.
Beyond her artistic contributions, Rose has been a passionate advocate for the village, frequently writing about its history and preservation efforts in the Suncoast Post. Notable writings include a heartfelt farewell to Annie’s Bait & Tackle in 2025 and a reflection in 2024, announcing her plans to move to Arkansas.
Writers Note – Rose has long been a contributing voice for The Suncoast Post, capturing readers’ attention with her stories. Her presence will surely be missed.
Photos from Rose Lipke Facebook Page
Key Information
- Event: Rosie’s Big Send Off
- Date: Sunday, August 31st
- Time: 4 PM
- Location: Swordfish Grill & Tiki, Cortez
- Special Features: Cold drinks, great food, live music, and heartfelt stories
- Honoree: Rose Lipke, local artist and advocate for Cortez’s heritage
Article original publish date: 2025-08-19 14:00:00
Article source: www.suncoastpost.com
Read the full story at the original source: www.suncoastpost.com
