Rita Mae Michal

Rita Mae Michal, Ste. Genevieve, Mo., passed away surrounded by family Thursday, March 2, 2023, at the age of 75.

Rita was born in Chippewa Falls, April 3, 1947, to Carl Nelson West and Clara Blanche (Pake) West.

She had a natural green thumb, tending to her flower beds in the yard and many house plants. She was a lover of all birds, particularly hummingbirds and cardinals, knitted the most sought-after dishcloths and was known for her frosted brownies.

Fondest memories include attending all activities of her children and grandchildren, canoe floats down the Current River and volunteering at/attending wrestling tournaments. She was an originating member of the St. Louis Local Organizing Committee for the Division I NCAA Wrestling Tournament and a member of the Ste. Genevieve Women’s Club.

She is survived by her husband of 57 years – Raymond Joseph Michal, Ste. Genevieve, Mo.; daughters – Holly (David) Merz, St. Louis, Mo., and Sarah (Robert) Hodo, Kirkwood, Mo.; son – Dean (Mary) Michal, Gurnee, Ill.; brothers – Richard West and Roger (Gail) West; sister – Rose Ann (Phillip Yeadon) West; grandchildren – Brendan (Logan), Tanner (Sara) and Logan Merz, Riley (Collin Shaffer) and Grace (Jackson McClure) Michal, Collin and Nathan Hodo; beloved sister-in law; aunt; great-aunt; cousin and friend.

She was preceded in death by her parents and parents-inlaw – Lois (Miller) and Raymond Michal.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, April 1, at Kutis South County, 5255 Lemay Ferry Rd., Mehlville, Mo., with visitation from 9-11 a.m., followed by a service at 11 a.m.

Memorials can be made to Hope Lodge St. Louis, 4207 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108, or the American Cancer Society.

Online condolences may be expressed at baslerfuneralhome. com.