Rita Ann Flaherty, age 94 of La Crosse, passed away peacefully on June 1st, 2023, at Brookdale Senior Living of Onalaska.
She was born on April 11, 1929 in Zanesville Ohio to Charles and Florence Lemmon. She graduated from St. Mary's of the Springs College in
Columbus, Ohio in 1951. She married William Flaherty on August 11th, 1952. Together, they moved around a bit and settled in La Crosse in the early 1960's where they raised 6 children.
Rita enjoyed visiting her children and grandchildren, playing games and cards, reading, cooking, singing, and watching sports. Spending time with family and friends is what brought that sparkle in her eyes and a warm smile to her face. Rita was a very giving person who loved meeting new people. She spent over 40 years volunteering at Mayo Clinic Health Systems and developed many friendships along the way.
Rita was preceded in death by her husband William, daughter, Theresa, parents Charles and Florence and a brother Gordon.
Rita is survived by her children, Bill, Jackie, Lori, Pat (Pamela) and Michelle (Jerry). Grandchildren, Ahmed, Daniel, William, Conner, Courtney, Nicole, and Ryan and 7 Great grandchildren.
The family would like to thank the Mayo Hospice and Brookdale Senior Living Onalaska for the wonderful care and comfort she was given in her final months.
A gathering of family and friends will be held on Saturday, July 22nd from 10:00-noon with a remembrance service at noon followed by a luncheon at the Gathering Place in Onalaska.