Thank you for your kind words honoring my mother-in-law, Rita.  She was truly a remarkable lady and is missed tremendously.  (Photo taken a month before she passed)

DECEMBER 26 This beautiful soul was given her wings today. We wanted to let you all know that at around 3:20 this morning, Rita was called to her Heavenly home. She is cured, she is healthy again and my greatest hope is that upon her arrival into Heaven, Richard was there waiting for her asking for this dance. She worked fervently here on earth positively impacting countless lives of children, friends and family. I often referred to her as the "Queen of the Silver Lining" as she found joy and promise and beauty in every single thing. I am a better person for knowing her and I sought great joy in surprising her with things that meant much to her and moments that would make her smile. It was euphoric for me to make an already happy person happier and she made it easy. This past year, I have been incredibly honored to be with her, to help her, to ease her, to talk to her and learn from her. I reminded her often how amazing of a person she was, how loved she was and how much I admired her for everything she exemplified. She is and will always be an amazing mother to Heidi and Erik, grandmother to Christian, Sydney, Emily, Adaline and Melanie, mother-in-law to myself and Manny, Aunt, teacher, wife, sister, daughter and friend. As her sister Ginny said, "You only die when people forget about you." Her work on earth is complete, but her legacy will last forever. We love you, Rita. Daughter in law April Okerholm

It's with GREAT sorrow that I heard of the passing of Rita. We were classmates since kindergarten at Brackett school. I walked by her house nearly everyday, and sometimes she would join me in our trek up the lower hill at Robin's Farm to make it to class on time. I loved her beautiful red hair. She is standing beside me (to my left) in this Brackett School 6th grade class photo, (click on the photo, at left, to enlarge it) and if the photo were in color, you could admire her beautiful red hair, too.

April,  What a magnificent tribute to Rita--so well written & from the heart.  I met Rita in 7th gr. & knew her through our graduation.  She was always upbeat & fun.  Last time we chatted was @ our 50th & she was still full of life, fun & funny! My deepest sympathy to you & the entire family.