Dr. Rose Mary Hatem Bonsack, Former Delegate, Dies At 86

HARFORD COUNTY, MD — In honor of a former Maryland State Delegate from Havre de Grace, Harford County Executive Barry Glassman has ordered the Harford County flag lowered to half staff.

Dr. Rose Mary Hatem Bonsack died Sept. 27. She was 86.

Bonsack was an accomplished medical doctor who worked at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Ashley Addiction Treatment and Harford County Health Department, among others, during her career. She also served on many boards and was the first female president of the Maryland Academy of Family Physicians, according to her obituary, which stated she was director of the American Academy of Family Practitioners and inducted into the Havre de Grace High School Hall of Fame.

She served in the House of Delegates from 1991 to 1999, including as chair of the Harford delegation for three years, according to a statement from Harford County government.

But it was more than her resume that defined Bonsack, who was known for her warm spirit.

“In addition to her successful career, Rose Mary will be remembered for her kindness and devotion to her family and her community,” Glassman said. “I am proud that she was also a fellow graduate of Washington College and one of my mentors. Harford County will keep her and her loved ones in our prayers.”

The Harford County flag will remain at half-staff through sunset on Sunday, Oct. 4, in memory of Bonsack.

Funeral services and burial will be limited to family. Services will be coordinated by Zellman Funeral Home. People may leave tributes online. The funeral home reports it will livestream the funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 2, on Facebook.

Instead of flowers, donations may go to the John Carroll School, 703 E. Churchville Road, Bel Air, MD 21014.

Those interested in being notified about a celebration of life, which will be held in the future, may email tjbonsack@hotmail.com.