Rita Mae Carlson

After 85 years of contributions to make a better world, Rita Mae Carlson (nee Freiermuth) died peacefully at White Pine Memory Care Home in Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota on Friday, May 19, 2017. She lived a full life. Rita is survived by her four children; Loreen Fried, William Carlson (Muriel), Carol Dahl (Ron), John W. Carlson (Jean); eleven grandchildren; Cari Jankowski (Joel). Jim Wendorff III, Christina Irving (Don), Laura Noonan (Michael), John R. Carlson (Carrie), Casey Dahl (Justin), Wyatt Carlson, Janine Dahl, Jessica Warren (Devin), Derick Wendorff, Maryeah Wendorff; sixteen great grandchildren and one brother, James Freiermuth. Rita was born south of Hastings to George A. Freiermuth and Frances (Biskupski) on March 29, 1932. She was the second of four children. Her early life revolved around living in Hastings and working in her parents liquor store. She married John E. Carlson in 1951, and they moved to Colorado with their three children in 1957. Her hobbies were bowling, puzzles, and the many fun family vacations that were spent traveling and sightseeing the United States. Her frequent quote of "helping other people always makes you feel better" was put to practice countless times by her and those around her. Ritas life included complete dedication to her husband, family and anyone needing assistance. Displaying a positive attitude was a memorable trait. Well-known talents were the practices of giving, listening, helping, forgiving, loving people and her complete love of God. She was preceded in death by husband John E. Carlson; her parents; sister, Mary Johnson; brother, George J. Freiermuth and infant son James Keith. A special thank you to the nurses and aides at the White Pine Memory Care Home in Inver Grove Heights. Their attention and loving care was greatly appreciated. A Celebration of Life and Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, May 26, 2017 at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 2035 15th Street West, Hastings, Minnesota with Father David Hennen officiating. Visitation will be from 6:00-8:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 25, 2017 at the Caturia-Smidt Funeral Home Cremation Services, 201 East 7th Street, Hastings, Minnesota and one hour prior to mass at church on Friday.