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BORN
1948
DIED
2025
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Rita Hitzeman Obituary
December 5, 1948 - February 17, 2025
Rita A. Hitzeman, aged 76, passed away on February 17, 2025, in Joplin, MO.
On December 5, 1948, Rita was born to Raymond and Joann (Leach) Wesbrooks in Winfield, KS. She grew up and graduated from high school in Augusta, Kansas.
Rita married David Hitzeman on July 28, 1966, in Augusta, KS. Early in their marriage, Rita worked and supported the couple so that David could pursue his life's calling, to become a doctor.
Rita and David's enduring marriage was filled with shared joys and adventures, notably their love for boating and embracing the lake life, which became a significant part of their family's happiest memories.
A quintessential homemaker and a gracious host, Rita was often described as the mother to many beyond her own family. Her home was a hub of activity and warmth, driven by her vibrant energy and contagious laughter. She had a unique ability to make everyone feel special, a trait that extended beyond her family circles to her friends and anyone that crossed her path.
Her life revolved around her three sons and their families, Rita embodied the role of a loving wife, adoring mother and doting grandma. Her quick wit and fun-loving nature ensured that her presence was always a source of joy and comfort.
She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, James Wesbrooks and husband, Dr. David Hitzeman.
Left to cherish Rita's memory, sons, Troy Hitzeman (Tammy) of Oklahoma City, OK, Tate Hitzeman of The Colony, TX, and Travis Hitzeman (Courtni) Carollton, TX; sister, Judy Dullea of Broomfield, CO, sister-in-law Chris Wesbrooks of Augusta, KS, grandchildren: Gage, Savannah, Presley, Logan, Reagan, Tucker and Dalton.
Memorial service will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Tulsa, OK.
Celebration of Life will be Thursday, Feb 27 from 6-8 p.m. at Big Shots. 29975 S 566 Road, Afton, OK 74331.
The family request Donations in Rita's memory be made to to:
Home of Hope.
P.O. Box 903.
Vinita, OK 74301.
Or online at: www.homeofhope.com.
*Please note your donation is for the "Mary Moore Family Endowment"
Arrangements entrusted to Nichols Stephens Funeral & Cremation Services.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Rita Hitzeman
Sponsored by Nichols-Stephens Funeral and Cremation Service.
3 Entries
Lisa Funk
February 27, 2025
I can think of so many fun memories with Rita and Dr H!!! i was his xray tech and got to know Rita thru those wonderful parties we went to!!!! Praying for all of you!!!!
Bob Bethell
February 26, 2025
Rita and Dr. David Hitzeman were major forces within the Tulsa District Osteopathic Society and their dedication to the profession was exemplary. It was an honor to work with them on many projects.
Gaye (Krepps) Stumpff
February 20, 2025
My parents and Rita´s parents were good friends and the Krepps kids and Wesbrooks kids all grew up together. I have so many wonderful memories of the good times we all had together. I just considered Rita as a bonus older sister and I always thought she was SO beautiful with that dazzling smile! She was a true gem and will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Many prayers for Judy, and her three sons (who she was so proud of) and their families..
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Nichols-Stephens Funeral and Cremation Service10201 U.S. Highway 59, Grove, OK 74344
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