Rita Joyce (Hartkopf) Gruenhagen was born March 11, 1945 to Marvin and Mary Blanche (Aubart) Hartkopf in Minneapolis, MN. Rita graduated from Eden Valley High School class of 1964.
On June 5, 1970 Rita was united in marriage to Gary Gruenhagen of Howard Lake by Pastor Gerhard C. Michael at St. James Lutheran Church this marriage was blessed with four daughters Deborah, Delight, DeeAnn, and Donna. Rita and Gary lived on the family farm north of Howard Lake and shared 46 years of marriage.
Rita enjoyed a variety of things including music, dancing, cross stich, crochet, needle work, watching wrestling, playing Bingo, playing cards with family and most recently with her friends at the senior center. Rita also enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren whom she loved dearly.
On October 24, 2016 Rita was admitted to the hospital for complications due to pneumonia. On November 13, 2016 Rita passed away at Abbott Northwestern hospital at the age of 71 years 8 months and 2 days. Blessed be her memory.
Rita is survived by her spouse Gary Gruenhagen of Howard Lake, daughters Deborah Gruenhagen and friend Marty of Lester Prairie, Delight (Teak) Wood of Howard Lake, DeeAnn (Roger) Hartsuiker of Hutchinson, Donna (Mike) Carlson of Montrose. Grandchildren Thomas Reardon of Montrose, Ashley and Caitlin Hartsuiker of Hutchinson, Danielle Wood of Howard Lake. Her siblings Alan, Marlys, Gennie, and Larry, Sister-in law Corene Oestreich of Howard Lake. Nephews Daniel (Teresa) Oestreich of Howard Lake, Donald (Tammy) Oestreich of Howard Lake, Niece Dellarae (Brad) Brabec of Watertown, and a host of other family and friends.
Rita is preceded in death by her parents Marvin and Mary Blanche Hartkopf, father and mother-in law Fredrick and Florence Gruenhagen and Brother-in law Dennis Oestreich.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, November 18, 2016 at St. James Lutheran Church in Howard Lake. Visitation will be 2 hours prior to the service at church. Arrangements by Swanson-Peterson Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Howard Lake, www.swansonpeterson.com, 320-543-3401
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