Rita Arnett

Our most beloved mother, grandmother, aunt and friend Rita E. Arnett, age 90, of Des Moines entered eternal life to be with her Heavenly Father, Blessed Mother, and loving husband on February 7, 2014. She was born Rita Elizabeth Wiederholt on April 29, 1923 in Conception, Missouri. Rita met her lifelong sweetheart Roy G. Arnett in Denver, Colorado, where they were married after only a two week courtship on June 12, 1946. Roy and Rita moved to Des Moines where they raised their family of six children and created many enduring friendships with their neighbors. They were married for 67 years, and he preceded her in death just a few weeks ago.

Rita will always be remembered as a loving, kind, generous woman who was dedicated to caring for her husband, children, and grandchildren. She gave us the gift of life, and showed us through example and word how to live in the light and grace of God. She was also compassionate and nurturing to neighbors, friends, and relatives, giving help and comfort to all in need. For this she is loved and missed by all.

Rita and Roy resided in retirement in Onalaska, Texas for over 30 years before returning to Des Moines. She was a member of the Roman Catholic Church, life long member of the St. Anthony’s Altar and Rosary Society, and was a member of St. Anthony’s Parish in Des Moines and St. Joseph’s in Livingston, Texas.

Those left to mourn her passing include the six children that Rita and Roy brought into this world, and their spouses: Ronald Arnett and wife Ginger of Granbury, Texas; Rebecca Velez and husband Gustavo of Des Moines; Rita Arnett and husband John Allar of Las Cruces, New Mexico; Roslin Reynolds and husband Frank of Des Moines; Raymond Arnett and wife Janice of Las Cruces, New Mexico; and Randy Arnett and wife Robin of Onalaska, Texas. Other survivors who will miss her deeply include 21 grandchildren; 34 great grandchildren; her sisters Mary Giudicessi, Norma Shively, Louella Hall, brothers Delbert Wiederholt and Lucian Wiederholt, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will greet friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 11, 2014 with a rosary to begin at 7:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, February 12, 2014 at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 15 Indianola Road. Burial will follow at Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter.

Condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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