Rita Ann Stange

1937 - 2024

Rita Ann Stange, age 86, of Walcott, Iowa, passed away Saturday, July 6, 2024 at her home. Cremation rites have been accorded. A celebration of life will be held from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m., Saturday, July 13, 2024 at the Walcott American Legion, with food, laughter and stories provided. A private family burial will take place in Walcott Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Walcott Fire Department or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Online condolences may be left at www.bentleyfuneralhome.com. Rita was born on July 10, 1937, the daughter of Freeman and Lydia (Collins) Ethridge. She graduated from Oxford Junction High School and later earned her nursing degree. Rita married Marlyn Stange on October 19, 1958 in Oxford Junction. Marlyn passed away on January 1, 1986, while attending the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. Rita worked as a registered nurse in Iowa City, Burlington and Cedar Rapids. She was also a patient care coordinator for Genesis West Hospital in Davenport until retiring. Rita enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing with her grandchildren, camping, gardening and tending to her yard and flower gardens. Rita was also an avid Iowa Hawkeyes and Chicago Cubs fan. Most of all, Rita loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. Rita will be lovingly remembered by her son, Curt (Nicole) Stange of Walcott; four grandchildren, Jacob Stange, Janae (Kevin) Luppino, Cody (Amber) Stange, and Logan Corrigan; four great-grandchildren, Melody and Tatum Stange, and Cannon and Henley Luppino; Craig's significant other, Dee Ford; brothers- and sisters-in-law, Janet Stange, Karen and Ronnie Stange, Carma Jean and Fred Clark; and many nieces, nephews and close family friends. Rita was preceded in death by her parents, Lydia and Freeman; her husband, Marlyn; a son, Craig "Gravy" Stange; and one brother-in-law, Dennis Stange.