Rita Wengel of Saukville, formerly of Milwaukee, passed away at her home early Friday morning, March 1, 2024. She was 87 years old.

Rita was born in Milwaukee on November 21, 1936, daughter of Peter and Lucille (nee Jones) Colla. She attended local Milwaukee schools and graduated from Rufus King High School, Class of 1955, before continuing her education.

On August 23, 1958, Rita was united in marriage with James Wengel in Milwaukee. The couple settled in Milwaukee and raised their family. Later, the couple built a home in Saukville. Jim preceded Rita in death in 1994 and she moved to their Saukville home in 1995.

Rita was, above all else, a loving wife and mother whose faith in Jesus was so strong that it influenced not only one generation, but many. She was an active member of her church, which included being active in the Rosary prayer group. She was also a proud small business owner, and ran a sporting apparel business, Personalized Apparel, for many years.

Rita looked forward to spending time with her family, and always eagerly anticipated the annual family picnic, which included so many extended family members and friends. She enjoyed bowling, bingo, and playing cards – particularly a good game of Sheepshead! Rita was also an avid fan of the Packers and the Brewers, and loved sports.

Those left to cherish her memory include her seven children: James (Wendy) Wengel, Lynn (Thomas) Bickle, Mary (James) Albrecht-Fisher, David (Amy) Wengel, Christi (Ken) Breimon – Poppe, Julie (David) Bieganski, and Thomas (Tonia) Wengel. She is further survived by 27 grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren, son-in-law Donald Ciardo, sister Susan (Michael) Manning, nieces, nephews and other family and friends. Rita is preceded in death by her husband James, daughter Lucy Ciardo, and brother Peter Colla.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 6:30PM on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at St. John XXIII Parish- Immaculate Conception Church, 145 Church Street, Saukville. Father Patrick Wendt will preside the Mass. Rita will be laid to rest beside her husband the following day at Wood National Cemetery in Milwaukee. A Rosary service will be held at 4PM on Wednesday, March 6th at the CHURCH, with public visitation following from 4:30PM until Mass begins at 6:30PM.

If desired, memorials in Rita's name may be given to the MACC Fund or to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital.

The Eernisse Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements; online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com .