Of Ste. Genevieve, MO passed away surrounded by family on Thursday, March 2, 2023 at the age of 75. She was born in Chippewa Falls, WI on April 3, 1947 to Carl Nelson West and Clara Blanche (Pake) West. Rita is survived by her husband of 57 years, Raymond Joseph Michal of Ste. Genevieve, daughters Holly (David) Merz of St. Louis, MO and Sarah (Robert) Hodo of Kirkwood, MO and son Dean (Mary) Michal of Gurnee, IL; brothers Richard West and Roger (Gail) West; sister Rose Ann (Phillip Yeadon) West; grandchildren Brendan (Logan), Tanner (Sara) and Logan Merz, Riley (Collin Shaffer) and Grace (Jackson McClure) Michal, Collin and Nathan Hodo. Beloved sister-in law, aunt, great aunt, cousin and friend. Preceded in death by her parents and parents-in-law, Lois (Miller) and Raymond Michal.
Rita had a natural green thumb, tending to her flower beds in the yard and many house plants. She was a lover of all birds, particularly Hummingbirds and Cardinals, knitted the most sought-after dishcloths and was known for her frosted brownies. Fondest memories include attending all activities of her children and grandchildren, canoe floats down the Current River and volunteering at/attending wrestling tournaments. She was an originating member of the St. Louis Local Organizing Committee for the Division I NCAA Wrestling Tournament and a member of the Ste. Genevieve Women’s Club.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 1, 2023 at Kutis South County 5255 Lemay Ferry Rd. Mehlville, MO with visitation from 9 – 11 am, followed by a service at 11 am.
Memorials can be made to Hope Lodge St. Louis 4207 Lindell Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63108 or the American Cancer Society. Online condolences can be left at www.kutisfuneralhomes.com.
Aunt Rita was so thoughtful and generous. The kindest lady! May she rest in peace. Sending up prayers for all who love her!
Aunt Rita was so thoughtful and generous. The kindest lady! May she rest in peace. Sending up prayers for all who love her!
The sweetest friend ever!!!
The sweetest friend ever!!!
Many fond memories with Rita and Ray having cocktails and story telling after D1 wrestling championships in St Louis. So much hard work and great friendships, for so many tournaments. Rita was way more fun when we were traveling to out of town championships.
Many fond memories with Rita and Ray having cocktails and story telling after D1 wrestling championships in St Louis. So much hard work and great friendships, for so many tournaments. Rita was way more fun when we were traveling to out of town championships.
Loved the Wisconsin visits with Aunt Rita. Many great memories including road trips, visiting them in St. Louis and family reunions. She will be greatly missed.
Loved the Wisconsin visits with Aunt Rita. Many great memories including road trips, visiting them in St. Louis and family reunions. She will be greatly missed.
Mrs. Michel was just one of the nicest ladies I’ve ever known. She was a big part of my childhood. I got to chase my dreams in the sport of wrestling because Mrs. Michel and the rest of The St Louis Wrestling Mafia. She was a big part of why the NCAA Wrestling tournament has been such a success in St. Louis. I will think of her every time I watch an NCAA Wrestling Tournament.
Mrs. Michel was just one of the nicest ladies I’ve ever known. She was a big part of my childhood. I got to chase my dreams in the sport of wrestling because Mrs. Michel and the rest of The St Louis Wrestling Mafia. She was a big part of why the NCAA Wrestling tournament has been such a success in St. Louis. I will think of her every time I watch an NCAA Wrestling Tournament.