Rita Abla "Kosi" Winegardner

Rita Abla Dzidedi (Kosi) Winegardner, age 69, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 23, 2026 surrounded by her family.

Rita was born on July 3, 1956 in Accra Ghana to parents, John Ketsowo Kosi and Bernice Monyetor Ackumey. She was happily married to Richard Winegardner for 48 years. Two daughters were born from this union, Stephanie Winegardner and Rachel (Rae) Winegardner.

Rita will be remembered for her love for people and family, her kind heart, infectious laugh, and extraordinary ability to bring people together.

In her community, her neighbors looked to her to plan the yearly National Night Out. In 2025, the gathering was extra special as the mayor of the city came to their cul-de-sac. These types of outings were not new to Rita, as she had planned many gatherings while attending university.

Rita studied at Ashley's Secretarial School in Accra. She ultimately earned a BA in Political Science from the University of Colorado. She amazingly accomplished her degree while juggling childcare and adjusting to her new home. Although her passion was political science, she did not allow that to limit her career choices. She had the skill set to work in many areas from non-profit organizations to government contracts to the aerospace industry. She retired from the aerospace configuration management department after serving over 15 years, in 2020. After retirement, Rita's desire for lifelong learning caused her to seek out opportunities. She pursued classes through Osher Lifelong Leaning Institute (OLLI), giving her the chance to connect online with peers and engage deeply across diverse courses.

Rita was a founder of the VOLTA Club ensemble for African drumming and dancing, as well as a member of the United Women's Club of Ghana in Maryland. Over the course of her lifetime, she connected with many groups including Ghanaian Association of MN (GhanAM), Ghana Association of Colorado, Council of Ewe Associations of North America (CEANA), and cancer support groups at Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PANCAN) and Gilda's Club. She was also a treasured community member at her local YMCA.

Rita fiercely loved her children and extended family and fought to give them every opportunity. She had a close relationship with her mother-in-law who served as a mentor and loving role model. They often shared stories and traditions.

Rita's passions included: gardening, watching soccer, travel, trying new cuisines, and learning about different cultures and customs. She was known as an avid viewer of CSPAN, and a lifelong learner that would often engage new friends and old in discussions. In sports viewing, she was a Denver Broncos enthusiast and enjoyed friendly/competitive banter with rival fans.

Rita was a generous friend and did everything in her power to make sure those around her were safe and comfortable. Her legacy of kindness, generosity and community building will live on.

Rita is preceded in death by her parents John Ketsowo Kosi and Bernice Monyetor Ackumey; and siblings, Esther Kosi and Martin Kosi.

She is survived by spouse, Richard Winegardner; children, Stephanie Winegardner (Gregory) and Rachel (Rae) Winegardner; siblings, George Kosi, Michael Kosi, Theresa Ackummey and Vincent Kosi; and many more relatives and close friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11am on Thursday, March 12th at Mary, Mother of the Church, 3333 E. Cliff Road in Burnsville with a visitation beginning at church at 10 am prior to the Mass.

Burial will follow the Mass at Acacia Park Cemetery in Mendota Heights.

There will be a gathering following the burial to share stories, memories, and tributes.