American Association of Commercial Finance Brokers (AACFB) lost one of its biggest cheerleaders and a former board member, Rosanne Wilson, on Dec. 8.

Rosanne founded 1st Independent Leasing in 1990. Prior to that she spent 12 years with Transamerica Financial Services and was the branch manager of the Portland, OR office. Rosanne was a Certified Lease & Finance Professional (CLFP) and Best Practices Broker (BPB). She volunteered with the CLFP Foundation as a mentor and was a Past President of the CLFP Foundation Board. Rosanne was also a member of the Leasing News Advisory Board for many years and was named one of the “Most Influential Women in Leasing” in 2009 by Leasing News.

In 2005, Rosanne joined the then NAELB board of directors as Treasurer. Even after her tenure on the board, she remained active on committees, especially the Membership Committee, which she chaired. Rosanne would sing the praises of the NAELB/AACFB to anyone who would listen.

Rosanne was granted Lifetime Membership in the NAELB/AACFB, which is an honor only bestowed on one other individual outside of past presidents. In 2010, she was voted Mrs. NAELB at the Annual Conference and she wore the crown with pride.

In 2015 Rosanne became the first recipient of the AACFB President's Award, which is presented each year to an individual who has gone above and beyond to support the AACFB. Rosanne was a beloved member of this organization. She was a fighter and a force and will be missed.

Rosanne passed away after a prolonged illness and is survived by her devoted husband, Richard, her children, and grandchildren. AACFB asked you to please keep Rosanne's family in your thoughts as they go through this difficult time. A private memorial service will be held for Rosanne at a future date. No other information was provided.