Rita was united in marriage to her beloved husband, George Wendland, in July of 1965. They shared 43 years of love and partnership before. George’s passing in 2009. Rita was preceded in death by her husband George, as well as by her siblings: Meryle, Jerald, Mary, Robert, Sharon, Walter Jr., Gerhardt, and Faye. She was also preceded by her parents, Fern and Walter Ehlert.

Rita is survived by her two daughters, Sarah Simonton (married to Dalton Simonton) and Gina Colwell (married to Jack Colwell). She leaves behind four grandchildren: Bryon Westenberg, Kelly Colwel, Kimberly Westenberg, and Courtney Colwell. Rita was also the proud great-grandmother of Beau Westenberg.

Since 2005, Rita had called Apple Valley home. She was an active and devoted member of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Rosemount, Minn., where she contributed her time and talents as a volunteer. Her Christian faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she found great joy in serving others.

Rita’s passions included spending quality time with her grandchildren, who brought her immeasurable joy, and her love of sewing. She was known for her generosity, her quiet strength and strong sense of family.

Rita’s family and friends will deeply miss her, but her legacy of faith, love, and service will continue to inspire those who knew her.

A Celebration of Life will take place 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 4, at Lutheran Church of Our Savior, 14980 Diamond Path W., Rosemount, Minn. 55068, with a gathering of family and friends starting at 10 a.m. Private family interment at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Lutheran Church of Our Savior in her honor.

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