Rita Naomi "Rita" Parten

Rita Naomi (Roe) Parten was born to Frank Harris Roe and Mable Pauline Roe in Okanogan, WA. Rita passed away peacefully at the age of 89. Rita had been living at Garden Courte memory care since 2021. Rita was loved by many friends and caregivers and was often visited by many family members who expressed their love and appreciation for her job well done as mother, grandmother great grandmother and mother-in-law.
Rita is survived by her children, Valerie (Jerry) Kelso, of Battle Ground, Wa.; Jean (Sprague) Russell of Olympia, Wa.; son Steve Parten, of Olympia, Wa.; twelve grandchildren and nineteen great grandchildren.
Rita was preceded in death by her husband, Bill, in 2014, infant daughter, Linda Gail, son Fred, and sisters Sharon Hyatt and Darlene Hall.
Rita was a shy child growing up in Okanogan but found an interest in drawing and art which gave her confidence and led to many personal friendships over her lifetime. Rita was seventeen when she met and fell in love with handsome Bill Parten. They soon married and started a family. Bill and Rita welcomed Valerie, Jean, Fred and Steve. They were the brood Rita had always wanted. She was a loving and capable mom despite her youth. She was also very active in her church and supportive of the extended family.
In 1967 Rita and Bill move the family to the "metropolis" of Olympia where she was afforded many opportunities to furthering her artistic pursuits. With her focus on becoming an accomplished Oil painter, she continued to challenge herself taking and instructing classes, joining Olympia Art League, and participating in art shows where she sold many paintings and accepted several commissions for her work. She was awarded a Sweepstakes Ribbon for her painting of the Dayton Station.
Camping and gardening were two other favorites of Rita's many interests. She also volunteered at the Olympia Food Bank for many years, enjoying the work and the many friends she made there. Rita's greatest joy was her family and friends. She welcomed all who came to the Parten home and was always looking forward to the next gathering. Our dear mom, and grand/great grandmother- Rita will always be remembered for her boundless love, kindness and generous spirit.
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