Rita Whiteley

Rita Jane Whiteley was born on February 11, 1952, near Jacksonville, Iowa, to Gilbert and Arlene (Nissen) Hoogensen. She was baptized and later confirmed at Bethlehem Lutheran Church near Jacksonville. Rita graduated from Harlan High School and went on to attend Midland Lutheran College in Fremont, Nebraska, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. She later attended Medical Technology School in Lincoln.

On June 13, 1981, Rita was united in marriage to Michael Whiteley at Bethlehem Lutheran Church near Jacksonville. The couple began their married life in Lincoln before moving to Colorado in 1985. Rita worked as a microbiologist at Amgen for many years. Following her retirement, Rita and Michael relocated to Harlan.

Rita enjoyed sewing and various crafts. She was an avid quilter and kept busy making jewelry. She also enjoyed winding down at the end of the day by cooking a nice meal and enjoying a glass of wine.

On Friday, December 12, 2025, Rita passed away after battling cancer at Methodist Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska, at the age of 73 years, ten months, and one day. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Rita is survived by her husband, Mike Whiteley of Harlan; brothers-in-law: Phil (Linda) Whiteley of Grand Island, Nebraska and Brad Whiteley of Lincoln, Nebraska; cousins and friends.

Her memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, January 5, 2026, at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church near Jacksonville. Inurnment will follow in the Jacksonville Cemetery. The family will direct memorials.