Rita Mae Scheich, aged 92, passed away peacefully at her home in Dundee, Michigan, on August 14, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on May 19, 1932, in Toledo, OH, she was the daughter of Henry and Edna Burton. Rita graduated as salutatorian from Ida High School in 1950.
On April 22, 1950, Rita married the love of her life, Robert Scheich, and together they built a beautiful life. A dedicated wife and mother, she was the beloved matriarch of a large, close-knit family, leaving behind a legacy of love and devotion. She worked professionally as a real estate agent.
Rita loved playing card games, spending time in the Florida sunshine, and watching Michigan football and college basketball. She was a proud member of the St. Irene’s Catholic Church Altar Society, the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, and later in life, the Dundee Senior Center.
Rita was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Edna Burton; her sister, Mary (Louis) Grodi; her brother, Donald (Ruth) Burton; her sister, Lillian Schmitt; and her husband, Robert Scheich, who passed away on December 7, 2018. She is survived by her seven children: Kathleen Petrie, Robert Scheich Jr. (Barb), Dyan Keith (Gregg), Douglas Scheich (Sara), David Scheich (Kim), Donald Scheich (Angie), and James Scheich (Traci); and her sister-in-law Sue Salenbien (Ben). In addition, Rita is survived by her 23 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren with two more on the way, and her beloved caregiver Kelly Parks.
A viewing will be held on Tuesday, August 20 at 10:00AM at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Ida, Michigan, followed by Mass at 11:00 AM. A luncheon reception will follow the Mass at St. Joseph’s Church Hall.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in honor of Rita Scheich to Hospice of Lenawee. Rita’s life was a beautiful testament to love, family, and faith, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.