Born Mary Martin Dobelman in Old Monroe, she entered the novitiate in 1952 and professed first vows in 1954. She earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Fontbonne College and a master’s degree in religious education from Boston College. In addition, she completed coursework for certification by the American Montessori Society.

Sister Rose Marie taught primary grades at St. Clement of Rome School in Des Peres and founded and served as the first director of Linda Vista Montessori School in Chesterfield. She served as the director of religious education at St. Clare of Assisi Parish in Ellisville, St. Joseph Parish in Clayton, Most Precious Blood Parish in Lemay and Queen of All Saints Parish in Oakville. Since 2007, Sister Rose Marie served in adult faith education at All Saints Parish in St. Peters. She earlier taught in Des Moines, Iowa.