Rita Rae (Ritz) Kruesel, 72, formerly of Mantorville

Rita Rae (Ritz) Kruesel, 72, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2020 surrounded by loved ones after a courageous, six-year battle with Lewy Body Dementia.
Rita was born on April 9, 1947 in Mantorville, the youngest of seven children. She excelled in school, played the drums in the marching band and was a cheerleader at high school football games.
Rita’s first job after high school was as a surgery scheduling administrator at the Mayo Clinic. She met her husband of 50 years, Gary, on a blind date. Later in life, after raising three sons, Rita worked at Tyrol Ski and Sports for 33 years.
Rita would do anything for her children, extended family, friends and two granddaughters, Anna Majella and Lorna Rae. Her selfless spirit was obvious throughout her entire life, spreading joy and happiness with a warm smile each and every day. She loved baking and cooking for family holidays and get-togethers. She enjoyed vacationing “Up North” at Woman Lake and traveling the country with her extended family. She would light up any room with her smile, warmth and optimism. Anytime Rita and Gary visited, they would bear gifts, usually fresh chocolate chip cookies or warm brownies.
Rita was a loving wife, mother, mother-in-law, an Olympic-caliber grandmother and friend to everyone she touched with her love and kindness.
Rita is survived by her husband Gary (a Saint), sons Jeff (Sheila, Anna and Lorna), Tim (KeCee) and Brian (Paul).
Thank you to Dr. Rhee with Mayo Clinic’s Palliative Care Team, Visiting Angels (Sue Koch and Mauricia Dery), and Exercise Mobility for the gentle care and support throughout her entire journey.
A Funeral Service was held on Saturday, Feb. 15, 2020 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, Rochester, with Pastor Mike Zaske officiating. Burial was at Oakwood Cemetery.
To leave a special memory or condolence please visit www.ranfranzandvinef h.com.

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