Those who knew Jack Rose well recalled his dry wit and his devotion to his church and his family.

The former mayor of Lawrence and longtime business manager of Kansas University’s chemistry department died Monday at the age of 78.

Longtime friend Warren Corman, who works as KU’s university architect, recalled how Rose would sprinkle conversations with little witticisms about life — “Don’t assume a (darn) thing,” being one that always stuck out in Corman’s mind.

Corman said Rose took up bronze working as a hobby, and became known for creating Jayhawk trinkets and other items for friends. He was most proud of creating a six-foot-high cross outside the Salvation Army in Topeka.

He served two terms on the Lawrence City Commission, and one term as mayor in the 1970s.

Rose worked as KU’s business manager in the chemistry department until he retired in 1993.

“Jack’s expertise in navigating the state purchasing system and helping me understand the inner workings of the university were absolutely essential to me as a junior faculty member,” said Joseph Heppert, who now serves as an associate vice chancellor for research and graduate studies.

Memorial services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Thursday at First Presbyterian Church in Lawrence. The family is scheduled to greet friends from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th St.

The family suggests memorial contributions to the Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders Association or to First Presbyterian Church in Lawrence. They may be sent in care of the mortuary.