Rita Ann Hansel

Rita Ann Hansel, 69, of Rockford, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 10, 2019. Born September 14, 1949 in Freeport, IL. Daughter of Retta and Earl Westergaard. United in marriage to John Hansel on June 6, 1964 in Rockford. She found enjoyment in cooking, going to the casinos, playing the lottery, bowling, listening to oldies country music and above all loved being around her family especially her grandchildren. She enjoyed hosting benefits and having Christmas parties at the West Suburban Fire station for the less fortunate children. She also loved the Chicago Bears and would watch every game. Rita worked for Septran for many years driving children to school.

Survived by her loving husband, John; children, Johnny, Brittney, Jordan and Mason Hansel; grandchildren, Nikki (Jeff) Eccles, Brandon Bloom, Erin Bennick; great-grandchildren, Jeffrey, Jestiny and Romeo; siblings, Art Westergaard, Barbara Bruce, Mary Barron, Penny Huckabee, Dale Westergaard and Tony Westergaard; several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by daughter, Cindy (Bill) Terrell; siblings, Donald and Earl Westergaard.

Celebration of Life Memorial Service at 2 p.m. on Thursday, March 21 at Advantage Funeral Home, 7000 West State St. Visitation at 1 p.m. until time of service. Pastor Charles Waggoner is officating the service. Burial will take place at a later date. Cremation rites have been accorded. To share a memory or condolence www.advantagefunerals.com