Rita Meier

Rita Meier, 93, passed away on March 26, 2015 surrounded by her loving family. Rita was born in New Almelo, Kansas on September 7, 1921. She was one of eleven siblings, all of whom have predeceased her. She graduated from Jennings High School in Jennings, Kansas in 1940.

Looking to better her life, Rita moved to Denver, Colorado and worked at various jobs until she took a job at Fitzsimmons Army Post. It was there that she met Clarence "Charlie" Meier, who was a soldier there. They were married on November 7, 1942. During WWII Rita followed Charlie wherever he was stationed throughout the United States and Japan. They settled in Aurora and were loving parents to seven children. Charlie suddenly left her side on June 9, 1969 after 27 years of marriage.

After having been a stay at home mother, she returned to work again at Fitzsimmons in various clerical positions. She retired in 1980.
Rita was the consummate caretaker. She was devoted to family, both immediate and extended. Over the years she cared for her father and several brothers as they aged. Her house was always open to whoever came to town whether family or friends.

Rita's longevity and happiness can be attributed to the "chaos" of an active loving family. Her grandchildren especially gave her much joy. Having grandchildren in California and Connecticut gave her a good reason to travel. She was a devoted spectator and supporter of her children and grandchildren's many sports and activities, sometimes attending several events in the same day in order to take them all in.

Sewing and gardening were other things she loved. She was a great cook. If she knew someone was coming by, there was always something tasty on the table. And of course there were always cookies in the cookie jar!

Rita was a member of St. Pius Parish. She was also a member and past president of Gold Star Wives.

Rita is survived by her children, Gloria (Joe) Kijewski, Jim (Pam) Meier, Marie (Paul) Bernard, Joan (Tim) Kelly, Jeff (Carol) Meier, Chris (Christine) Meier, Jane (Dan) Baker and 28 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Muscular Dystrophy Association at https://secure.mdausa.org/donate/. Transplant Living Centers at www.transplantlivingcenters.org and The Eucharistic Ministry at St. Pius X Church, 13670 E. 13th Place, Aurora, CO 80011.

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