Rita Marie Grasso

WAKEFIELD, Mich. – Rita Marie Grasso, 89, of Wakefield, walked into Heaven peacefully Saturday morning, Oct. 31, 2015, surrounded by loved ones.

Rita was born on March 9, 1926, in Jessieville Location in Ironwood, a daughter of Alois and Ann (Bonazza) Budy. She attended St. Ambrose Catholic High School and graduated in 1944.

On June 10, 1947, Rita was united in marriage to Joe Grasso in Milwaukee. They were blessed with two daughters.

Rita was employed by Children's Hospital of Wisconsin in Milwaukee and was a registered medical records librarian.

In 1953, the family moved to Oconomowoc, Wis., and she worked for the Oconomowoc Memorial Hospital as an administrative assistant.

Rita and Joe relocated to Lake Tomahawk, Wis., in 1969. They moved back to Wakefield in 1981 to enjoy their golden years.

She was a member of Cornerstone Church in Ramsay and was active in children's and welcome cookie mix ministries. Rita became a born again Christian after joining the Calvary Baptist Church in Wakefield. She was a true friend of Jesus and helped many others come to know Him.

Rita is survived by two daughters, Susan J. (Steve) Tinus, of Oconomowoc, and Joelle M. (Bruce) Underwood, of Woodruff, Wis .; a grandson, Trevor (Jeanna) Tinus, of Oconomowoc; two great-grandchildren, Teagen and Aubrie; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and a very special church family.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Joe, on May 21, 2010; two brothers, Al and Joe Budy; and two sisters, Katherine Lee and Rose Lambie.

The family will greet relatives and friends on Saturday, Nov. 7, from 10 to 11 a.m., at Cornerstone Church, N10344 Mill St., in Ramsay. A memorial service will follow the visitation at 11 a.m., with the Revs. Todd Winkler and Roy Speck officiating.

Lunch will be served at the church fellowship hall following the service.

The family would like to express their deep appreciation to the staff at Gogebic Medical Care Facility for their excellent care of Rita during her stay there.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Rita to the Gogebic Medical Care Facility Activities Department, 402 North St., Wakefield, MI  49968.

Arrangements are under the direction of Jerald Rocco, owner-manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield. Online condolences may be made to lakesidememorialchapel.com.