Rosemary Elikolani is best known as the mother of singer and television personality Nicole Scherzinger, but her own life tells a story of strength, love, and cultural pride. Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, in 1958, Rosemary carries a rich mix of Hawaiian and Ukrainian heritage that shaped her outlook on life and family.
Her Hawaiian roots taught her the importance of ‘ohana’ family unity and compassion, while her Ukrainian background gave her resilience and faith. As a devoted mother, she faced early struggles raising her daughters, Nicole Scherzinger and Keala Scherzinger, yet her dedication never wavered.
Through love, perseverance, and cultural pride, Rosemary guided her children to embrace their identity and values, leaving a lasting influence that shaped Nicole’s success and grounded personality.
Profile Summary
| Personal Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rosemary Elikolani |
| Date of Birth | 1958 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 67 years old |
| Birthplace | Honolulu, Hawaii, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity / Heritage | Hawaiian and Ukrainian |
| Religion / Faith | Christian |
| Known For | Mother of singer and TV personality Nicole Scherzinger |
| Occupation | Homemaker, Supportive Mother |
| Ex-Husband | Alfonso Valiente |
| Current Husband | Gary Scherzinger (German-American) |
| Children | Nicole Scherzinger, Keala Scherzinger |
| Residence (Past & Present) | Honolulu, Hawaii; later Louisville, Kentucky |
| Health | Underwent two open-heart surgeries (latest in 2020) |
| Notable Traits | Loving, resilient, culturally proud, family-oriented |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
Early Life and Heritage
Rosemary Elikolani was born in 1958 in Honolulu, Hawaii, into a culturally rich and diverse family background that combined Hawaiian warmth with Ukrainian resilience. Growing up surrounded by the natural beauty and traditions of the islands, she learned early the importance of ‘ohana, the Hawaiian belief in family unity and mutual care.
Her Ukrainian heritage added strength, faith, and discipline to her values, shaping her into a woman who deeply respected both sides of her ancestry. These cultural influences guided her sense of humility and compassion, helping her understand the value of family, community, and perseverance. Rosemary’s upbringing built the foundation for the love and dedication she would later show as a mother.
Upbringing and Cultural Influence
Rosemary’s childhood in Hawaii was filled with community gatherings, island celebrations, and close family ties. Life revolved around family meals, music, and helping neighbors, which strengthened her belief in unity and kindness. These traditions stayed with her as she grew older and became a mother herself.
She taught her daughters, Nicole and Keala, to honor their Hawaiian roots through respect and love, while also embracing the courage and faith from their Ukrainian side. Through her upbringing, Rosemary developed a nurturing philosophy that balanced tradition and modern values, ensuring her children remained proud of who they were and where they came from.
Marriage and Early Motherhood Challenges
In her early adult years, Rosemary married Alfonso Valiente, and together they welcomed their first daughter, Nicole Scherzinger. However, the marriage ended when Nicole was only two years old, leaving Rosemary to raise her child alone. As a single mother, she faced many financial and emotional hardships but never lost her determination.
She worked tirelessly to provide for her daughter, sometimes depending on community support and second-hand clothing, yet she made sure Nicole felt loved and secure. Rosemary’s strength during these difficult years shaped her into a resilient woman who raised her children with dignity, discipline, and unwavering care.
Move to Kentucky and New Beginnings
After years of struggle in Hawaii, Rosemary made the bold decision to move to Louisville, Kentucky, in search of better opportunities for her family. It was a turning point in her life that brought new hope and stability. In Kentucky, she met and married Gary Scherzinger, a German-American who later adopted Nicole and became a loving father figure.
The move allowed Rosemary to build a more stable home where love, education, and hard work were central values. Life in Kentucky gave her daughters a more grounded environment, and the family became closely connected, emphasizing faith and togetherness in every aspect of their daily lives.
Rosemary Elikolani Family Life and Motherhood Values
As a mother, Rosemary Elikolani is remembered for her balance of warmth and discipline. She raised her daughters with deep love, teaching them humility, respect, and strength. Her parenting was rooted in simple values — always be kind, work hard, and stay true to your faith and culture.
Rosemary’s daily life was filled with small sacrifices, but she never complained; instead, she turned challenges into lessons of gratitude and resilience. Her calm and patient nature created a loving household that valued emotional connection as much as ambition. Through her guidance, both Nicole and Keala grew up understanding the true meaning of family and perseverance.
Rosemary Elikolani’s Children
Nicole Scherzinger
Nicole Scherzinger, Rosemary’s eldest daughter, rose from modest beginnings to become a global star. As the lead vocalist of the Pussycat Dolls and a successful solo artist, Nicole’s journey was fueled by her mother’s encouragement and moral support. From a young age, Rosemary recognized Nicole’s love for music and enrolled her in performing arts programs, nurturing her talent while teaching her humility and discipline. Even as Nicole gained international fame, Rosemary remained her grounding force, offering advice, comfort, and unconditional love during both victories and struggles.
Keala Scherzinger
Keala Scherzinger, Rosemary’s younger daughter, has chosen a more private life away from the public spotlight. Despite not pursuing fame, she shares a close relationship with her mother and sister. Rosemary raised Keala with the same values of respect, family unity, and cultural pride that shaped Nicole’s life. Together, the three women share a deep bond built on trust, love, and shared experiences that reflect the heart of Hawaiian family traditions.
Influence on Nicole Scherzinger’s Career
Rosemary Elikolani played an essential role in shaping Nicole Scherzinger’s artistic and personal growth. She was the first to see Nicole’s musical potential and encouraged her to take part in talent shows, church performances, and performing arts schools.
While she fully supported Nicole’s dreams, Rosemary also stayed protective, often worrying about the entertainment industry’s influence. When Nicole joined the Pussycat Dolls, Rosemary had mixed feelings about their bold image but remained proud of her daughter’s success. Her guidance helped Nicole stay grounded, respectful, and connected to her roots, even as fame took her around the world.
Health Challenges and Resilience
Rosemary’s life has not been without hardship. In recent years, she faced serious health challenges, including undergoing two open-heart surgeries, with the most recent one in 2020. During this time, Nicole openly shared her fears and admiration for her mother’s courage, expressing gratitude for her strength and faith.
The family’s deep bond grew even stronger through these experiences, proving that love and unity can help overcome even the toughest times. Rosemary’s recovery symbolized not only her physical strength but also her emotional resilience — a reflection of the same determination she showed throughout her life.
Rosemary Elikolani Legacy of Love and Strength
The story of Rosemary Elikolani is one of quiet heroism, love, and cultural pride. She represents the strength of a mother who faced life’s hardest challenges with grace and faith. Her Hawaiian and Ukrainian roots gave her the balance of warmth and determination that she passed on to her daughters.
Rosemary’s legacy lives on in the lives of Nicole and Keala, who continue to embody her values of hard work, gratitude, and compassion. Her life reminds others that behind every success story is often a devoted parent whose strength shapes generations.
Rosemary Elikolani Net Worth and Lifestyle
Rosemary Elikolani’s exact net worth is not publicly known, as she has always preferred a private, family-centered life over public attention. Her lifestyle reflects simplicity and humility, grounded in the values of family, culture, and faith. While her daughter Nicole Scherzinger’s success has provided comfort and stability, Rosemary continues to live with grace and gratitude, finding true wealth in love, health, and family unity rather than material possessions.
Conclusion
From her early days in Hawaii to her years as a loving mother in Kentucky, Rosemary Elikolani’s life tells a story of perseverance, cultural pride, and devotion. Her journey from single motherhood to building a strong, supportive family shows her unbreakable spirit. As the guiding force behind one of the world’s most recognizable entertainers, she remains an example of love and resilience. Rosemary’s legacy reminds us that the strength of a mother can shape destinies, turning challenges into triumphs and love into lasting inspiration.
(FAQs) Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is Rosemary Elikolani?
Rosemary Elikolani is best known as the mother of singer and television personality Nicole Scherzinger. Born in 1958 in Honolulu, Hawaii, she carries a proud mix of Hawaiian and Ukrainian heritage. Her life reflects strength, love, and cultural devotion as she raised her daughters with faith and resilience.
2. What is Rosemary Elikolani’s cultural background?
Rosemary was born to a family with Hawaiian and Ukrainian roots, giving her a deep appreciation for both cultures. Her Hawaiian side taught her the importance of ‘ohana’ — family unity and compassion, while her Ukrainian ancestry instilled discipline and inner strength. This blend shaped her warm yet determined personality.
3. Who are Rosemary Elikolani’s children?
She is the mother of two daughters, Nicole Scherzinger and Keala Scherzinger. While Nicole gained international fame in music and entertainment, Keala prefers a private life. Rosemary raised with strong family values, humility, and cultural pride.
4. What challenges did Rosemary Elikolani face as a mother?
After her first husband, Alfonso Valiente, left when Nicole was two years old, Rosemary became a single mother. She worked hard to provide for her daughters despite financial difficulties. Her determination and faith helped her overcome hardship and build a loving, supportive home.
5. How did Rosemary Elikolani influence Nicole Scherzinger’s career?
Rosemary encouraged Nicole’s love for music from a young age by enrolling her in performing arts programs. She guided her with discipline and humility, supporting her through every stage of her journey to fame. Even during challenges, Rosemary’s unwavering belief in her daughter’s dreams became Nicole’s greatest source of strength.
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