Rita Sue Myers, age 75, of Bristol, passed away with her children by her side, on March 23rd, 2024. She was born on January 13, 1949, to the late Theodore and Hazelle (Clark) Gaida in Chicago, IL. On June 22nd, 1979, she married Hollis Myers, and they enjoyed 46 years together. She graduated from Wright Junior College and worked in accounting in Chicago until moving permanently to Wisconsin in 1978. Rita had always dreamed of owning a horse and before long that dream was realized. This city girl turned farmer enjoyed everything about life on the farm. She joined the City of Kenosha in 1983 where she worked in Finance, Housing, Water Utility and finally The Kenosha Public Museums where she served as bookkeeper and Gift Shop Manager. She proudly helped during the construction and opening of the new museums before retiring after 29 years. In retirement, she continued to serve family and friends as caretaker, and she pursued her passion for antiques and collectables while working at the local antique mall and running her own booths she referred to as ‘Grandma’s Attic’.
Rita loved gardening and all that came with it, watching and identifying birds at the feeders, baking, camping, bowling, the antique hunt, and most of all, the time she spent with her family, friends, and pets. She is survived by her children: Jill (Scott) Powell, Dawn (Chuck) Gustafson, and Brandon (Brenda) Myers. Also, her grandchildren: Austin, Autumn, Aidan, Avery, Ian, Evan, Soren, James, and Delia. She is further survived by her loving siblings: Gerry Gaida of Sarasota, FL and Patricia Bender of Salem, WI. Rita is proceeded in death by her husband Hollis, her parents and stepfather John Wilson, stepson Anthony Myers and adored Aunt Hilda and Grandma Clark. There were too many beloved pets to mention but, the most recent lost were Molly and Leo.
Special thanks to the incredible staff and Dr. Bandealy at the Aurora Cancer Center for their exceptional and loving care as she faced and tackled each obstacle head-on, on her terms, and ‘one day at a time’.
A celebration of this hardworking, tenacious, strong, and sometimes sassy, but always bold and courageous warrior will take place at a later date.
Memorial gifts may be made in Rita’s name to The Kenosha Public Museums, 5500 1st Ave, Kenosha, WI 53140.
Casey Family Options Funerals & Cremations
Stephen P. Casey, Funeral Director, and Owner
(262) 653-0667
www.CaseyFamilyOptions.com
Lisa says:
This is a beautiful tribute to a wonderful lady. I am so glad we met and she and my mom had time to talk.
She is living in love , light and joy.
Lisa Becker
Peggy Gregorski says:
What a perfect tribute to Rita. A full life well lived. May she rest well. Sending sympathy and love to the whole family.
Peggy Gregorski
Lynne Feldman says:
Beautiful tribute. It brought some fond memories back.
Jamie Benefiel says:
I had the pleasure of caring for Rita one weekend a few months back during her stay in the ICU on her birthday actually! I enjoyed every minute of it, I could tell she was a beautiful person. One of our screening questions during admission is “what matters the most to you,” and without hesitation she said her wonderful family. Sending my deepest condolences to all.
Jill says:
Thank-you so much for the exceptional care you provided that week! We could not have been happier with the staff in the ICU, it was perfect and we let everyone know about it! 🩷
Denise Jarvela says:
I am so sorry for your families loss. I pray that all of you find peace in knowing she is not in pain and knowing she is with those she loved-people and/or pets. I never got to know Rita well but Dawn is a special friend and we have have a special history through our pups and continue this despite our losses. Prayers for your family.
Becky Bender says:
Beautiful tribute! Auntie will be missed. ❤️
Jean Hoffmann says:
I had the pleasure of working with Rita at the Museums. She was a great boss, always standing up for her employees. She had common sense, a strong will, and could be a force to be reckoned with! I will miss her very much!
Laura Mikolajczak says:
Our sweet friends, we are so sorry for your tremendous loss. Our hearts are with you always. I truly enjoyed reading your mom’s story so perfectly told to remind all of us what a beautiful person she was and how she made a difference in so many lives! Hugs to all!
Pat says:
So sorry to read of your loss. She was a caring person and a pleasure to work with.