Rose Ann Meccoli, a long-time resident of Urbana, died March 4th at her home. A native of Taylorville, IL, Rose Ann was born Dec. 25, 1947, to Pete and Stella Meccoli. A graduate of the University of Illinois, she worked for more than 35 years at the university's College of Veterinary Medicine, retiring in 2006 as a Veterinary Research Specialist. During her years working as a research specialist, Rose Ann identified organisms that helped researchers advance veterinary science and veterinarians care for their patients. She was instrumental in developing alternatives to animal models for product testing. She also mentored hundreds of vet students as an instructor in lab classes and through her work at the university's Wildlife Medical Clinic.

Rose Ann's passion was working with animals of all kinds. Even after being partially paralyzed by a stroke, she continued to work at the clinic, often late at night, helping to rehabilitate injured or sick owls, hawks, raccoons and a range of wildlife. She also played a major role in the clinic's education and outreach program, serving as Public Relations Coordinator for several years. In 2014, Rose Ann was given the Wildlife for Life Award in appreciation for her 15 years of efforts on behalf of the wildlife clinic. In her private life, Rose Ann gave a home to countless animals ranging from dogs, cats and guinea pigs to pigeons, snakes and reptiles, including Onslow, purported to be one of oldest skinks alive.

Rose Ann was a gifted artist, winning local awards for her unique ceramic art work. She also expressed her creativity through painting, sketching and handicrafts.

Rose Ann is survived by her son Daniel (Susan); granddaughter Danielle; grandsons Kyle and Alexander; and great granddaughter Carson. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Mary Ann.

A memorial Mass will be held for Rose Ann at 10 AM on Saturday March 14th at St. Patrick's Church, 708 W. Main, Urbana, followed by a luncheon. She will be buried in Taylorville.

In lieu of flowers, Rose Ann would have appreciated donations to the University of Illinois Wildlife Medical Clinic, 1008 W. Hazelwood Dr., Urbana, 61801, to help care for the animals she so passionately loved.