Rita A. Schmidt, nee Albrecht, 68, of West Bend, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 17, 2004 at the Cedar Lake Health Care Center, West Bend, following a short battle with cancer.
She was born on October 8, 1935 in West Bend to the late Dr. Arnold and Elinor (Nee Fuge) Albrecht. Rita graduated from West Bend High School Class of 1953 and then attended Stephens College in Columbia, MO.
On August 10, 1957 she was united in marriage to Robert Schmidt at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church in West Bend. Together they made their home in Kewaskum. Rita was a stay at home mom until the children were older and then she worked as a cook for Campbell's restaurant in Kewaskum and later at Fay's Restaurant in West Bend. The family moved to West Bend in 1986 and Robert preceded her in death on September 11, 2000.
She was a member of the Kewaskum Women's Club and served for many years as a Girl Scout leader in Kewaskum. She enjoyed playing cards and belonged to several bridge clubs.
Rita spent much of her time as a caregiver to both her mother and husband, along with many other people. Her greatest enjoyment in life was spending time with her children and grandchildren.
She is survived by three children, Amy (FiancAC. Les Gessner) Hammen of Kewaskum, Roberta Schmidt of West Bend, and Brad (Karolyn) Schmidt of West Bend; Five grandchildren, Matt, Megan, and Melissa Hammen, Alexander and Benjamin Schmidt; A sister, Donna Albrecht of West Bend and a brother, Thomas (Donna) Albrecht of Thiensville; Along with her two special chocolate Labs, Bailey and Murphy; other relatives and many friends. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Julie Schmidt and her brother, Dr. James Albrecht. Funeral services will be held on Friday at 3:00 PM at the Myrhum ~ Patten Funeral Home, West Bend. Rev. Eric Kirkegaard of Peace United Church of Christ in Kewaskum will officiate and burial will follow in Washington County Memorial Park. Visitation will be Friday at the funeral home from 12:00 Noon until the time of service.
Memorials to Cedar Community are appreciated.