Rita O'Donnell

The sweetest mother, Rita P. O'Donnell, age 88, passed away on Monday, May 27th. She was born in LaCrosse, WI on March 17, 1925. She was an amazing woman who had a passion for living and she loved being a mom to her six children, Joyce (Glenn) Stevens of Puyallup, WA; Patricia Ruff of Oconomowoc, WI, Janis (Doug) Schoephoerster of Ashville, OH; Laura O'Donnell of Madison, WI, Catharine O'Donnell of Madison, WI; and James (Ann)O'Donnell of Fond du Lac, WI. She was preceded in death by her husband, Francis C. O'Donnell.
She is also survived by her brother, Charles Prise of LaCrosse and seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.
She was creative, artistic, clever, compassionate and kind. She was a champion for the underdog and did what she could to help so many people in her life. She had a great sense of humor, loved life and was an independent spirit, living on her own right up to the end. She taught her children so much in life, but most importantly that you should always keep doing things for yourself, be kind and take care of others.
The family would like to thank the many friends and neighbors she made along the way who enriched her life and brought her great joy.
As Rita requested, the family will be holding a private service in her memory. In lieu of flowers, the family recommends that donations be made in her name to Goodwill Industries, where she volunteered many hours.
Thank you for being a wonderful Mom, we will keep you in our hearts forever.