Rita Kleist

Rita M. Kleist, age 64, passed away on December 26, 2009 at her niece's home following an extended illness.   Private family services will be held at a later date.   The family prefers that memorials be directed the Homestead Hospice House in Owatonna or to Bethlehem Academy High School.   Arrangements are being completed by the Parker Kohl Funeral Home in Faribault.   Rita Kleist was born on May 9, 1945, in Rice County to Roger Madden, Sr. and Lucille Hagerty. She attended St. Canice School in Kilkenny and graduated from Bethlehem Academy in 1963. She married Gary Kleist in 1971 and resided in Warsaw. She worked nights at E.F. Johnson in Waseca until she was stricken with rheumatoid arthritis. Her husband, Gary, preceded her in death on December 19, 1993. Rita spent much of her time assisting with her many nieces and nephews. She rarely missed a sporting event until her health got the best of her. Even with her many debilitating medical issues, she lended a hand to many people and friends and remained active with her family. She was an avid reader and loved observing nature.   She is survived by her siblings: Richard (Ann) Madden of Waterville, Kathleen Thom of Faribault, Paul Madden of Kilkenny, Roger Madden Jr. of Kilkenny, and Patricia Madden of Medford and many nieces and nephews.   She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, sister Mary Ann Madden and brother in law Dennis Thom.