Bridgeport Woman who was Small Business Owner for Years, Rose Ellen “Thompson” Clemmenson, Passes

Rose Ellen ‘Thompson’ Clemmenson, 90 years of age, of Bridgeport, WV, passed away peacefully on April 13, 2025 at the Manchin Assisted Living Facility in Bridgeport. She was born on April 5, 1935 in Stouts Mills, WV, the daughter of the late Dewey W. and Sylvia Peters Thompson. Rose was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 5 years Ove Walter Clemmenson, Baltimore, MD.

Rose Ellen graduated from Sand Fork High School in Sand Fork, WV and attended Glenville State College. She married Robert A. Wildman and moved to Baltimore, MD where Robert worked for Bethlehem Steel, and where their children were born and raised. She worked for over 20 years as a seamstress and decorator. Her business, “Rose’s Boutique”, specialized in wedding gowns and formals, veils, pearling, lace embellishments and wedding gown restorations. She was featured in an issue of “Baltimore’s Best” magazine for her wedding gown artistry. Rose was also a dedicated homemaker and mother. In her spare time she loved to paint, play the organ and clarinet, and was a “green thumb” gardener. Robert Wildman passed away in 2002 related to lung cancer

She married Walt Clemmenson later in life and enjoyed his jazz abilities and his great sense of humor. She became a member of the Red Hats and enjoyed Shriner activities with Walt. Rose found her greatest joy in spending time with her friends and family.

Rose is survived by her children Deborah Wildman Estanich (Joseph) of Bridgeport, WV, and Ronald Wildman of Ellicott City, MD; three grandchildren, Alexander Estanich of Cleveland, OH; Emily Estanich of Morgantown, WV; and Julia Salatti Wildman, of Hanover, MD.

Rose was also preceded in death by her two brothers, Kenneth and Elden Thompson, as well as two sisters Evelyn Thompson and Luanna Thompson Smith. She is survived by several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend special thanks to WVU Hospital (UHC) as so many nurses, doctors, and staff gave excellent care and treatment over the years. A special thank you to the Hospice staff for giving comfort and excellent care in the last months of life. The Manchin Assisted Living Facility at White Oaks’ staff and Dr. Manchin, who was Rose’s family doctor, provided an exceptionally safe, clean, and compassionate care environment.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.burnsidefuneralhome.com.

Friends will be received at Burnside Funeral Home, 607 S. Virginia Avenue, Bridgeport, on Friday from 5 pm – 7 pm., where services will be held at 10 am on Saturday, April 19, 2025, with Mark Jones presiding. Rose Ellen will be laid to rest on Saturday, April 19 at 2 pm at the Sand Fork Cemetery in Sand Fork, WV.