Fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church, Tuesday, March 31, 2026. Beloved wife of the late William L. Bernard; dear father of William (Katherine), Andrew (Diane), Mary (Paul) Hollowell and Mickey (Carrie) Bernard; dear grandmother of Michelle, Lauren, Patrick, Charlie, Christopher, Katie, Alex, Margaret and Thomas; dear great-grandmother of Rory, Blakesley, William, Austin, Magnolia, Declan, Olive, and Sawyer; our dear aunt, cousin and friend.
Rita was a devote Catholic. Her faith and rosary were very important to her. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from St. Theresa’s in Winona, MN. Along with being a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother, she was generous with her time helping others. Rita was proud of her time volunteering at St Anthony’s Hospital. She was instrumental in starting and volunteering at the hospital’s flower shop. In addition, she served on the hospital’s auxiliary board and ultimately served as the president of that board. Rita had a lifelong passion for swimming and enjoyed her many years as an active member of a local synchronized swimming group, the Naiads.
Rita loved to travel, with France and Ireland holding a special place in her heart. She also cherished spending time “up north” in Minnesota and Wisconsin visiting family.
She expressed her creativity through arranging flowers bringing color and warmth to every space.
Rita loved good food and company often enjoying evenings out as well as cooking at home. A good glass of wine, good conversation, and time spent together were among her greatest joys.
Family was central to her life. She was a devoted wife and a steady presence for her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was the founder of the Tornado Club which was an exclusive club for her grandchildren.
Her warmth, appreciation for life, and the memories she created will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.
Services: Visitation at St. Justin Martyr Catholic Church (11910 Eddie & Park Rd. 63126) Thursday, April 9, 10:00 a.m. until time of Mass at 11:00 a.m. Internment Calvary Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Our Lady’s Inn, https://ourladysinn.org/