Rita Ann Schwan-Zeier
April 10, 1959 - June 24, 2019
Obituary
SOMERSET/NEW RICHMOND/MADISON-Early Monday morning on June 24, 2019, Rita A. Schwan-Zeier, age 60, slipped from her earthly existence into the Heavenly realm to meet her savior Jesus and be with her beloved ancestors. She was born on April 10, 1959, the daughter of John J. and Grace (St. Ledger) Schwan of Somerset, Wis.
Rita graduated from New Richmond High School and attended the UW-River Falls for two years before transferring to the UW-Madison, where she received her degree in special education. She married Timothy Zeier on May 2, 1987, at St. Paul University Chapel, in Madison.
Rita had a natural gift for working with all people, but especially children with special needs. She possessed a unique ability to reach into the hearts of so many disadvantaged individuals to find a way to bring a ray of hope into their lives. Rita was best known for her service as a special education teacher at Madison LaFollette High School where she taught for 28 years, retiring June 1, 2016.
Rita was an avid gardener and loved sharing her plants with others. She also enjoyed crafting, and knitting, garage saling, and researching her genealogy. Rita was an elegant dresser on a thrifty budget and was a friend to everyone she met.
Rita is survived by her husband, Tim; sons, Jeremiah (Lisi) Zeier, Jacob Zeier and Josh Zeier; and brother, Jerome (Helen) Schwan. She is also survived by her many in-laws; nieces and nephews and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. BERNARD CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2450 Atwood Ave., Madison, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 29, 2019, with Father Michael Radowicz and Father David Wanish concelebrating. Visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Friday, June 28, 2019, and also at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the Mass on Saturday. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com
Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420
Events
Visitation
Fri Jun 28, 2019 @ 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM CDT
Gunderson Funeral and Cremation Care - Madison • 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, WI 53716
Visitation
Sat Jun 29, 2019 @ 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM CDT
St. Bernard Parish • 2450 Atwood Ave., Madison, WI 53704
Photos
Memories
SB
Sarah Brookbank
Other •
Ms. Rita I cant believe you are gone. You were one of the strongest woman I ever known. You lead a fight against a disease that is cruel. You helped my family so much especially my son, Cory. You gave him the dignity and respect he deserved. I love you and will miss you so much thank you for touching our lives. RIP my dear sweet angel.
RW
Rebecca Whitman
Other •
Rest in peace Rita you will be dearly missed
BL
Billy Baillargeon and Brent Leonard
Other •
Rita was such a lovely treasure- she really was as sweet as her picture portrays. She was a uniquely loving soul that I know my entire family feels honored and blessed to have known. Rest well sweet Rita- you are deeply loved and missed.
TM
Terry Mikrut
Other •
I worked with Rita as an SEA at LaFollette during some of the hardest days in my life...she was always there for me with an uplifting smile, encouraging word and, best of all, a real helping hand. She was one of the kindest people I have ever known--I loved her and will miss her dearly....Terry M
KL
Kelly Lynaugh
Other •
Rita was a special person. I met her while I was teaching, then later when I became her 'boss'. I never saw a stronger woman. She saw good in everyone and was an extraordinary teacher. Her health struggle was long, she faced with courage. Blessings to Rita you will continue to bring a smile to my heart.
JB
Jessica Bolender
Other •
Aunt Rita was a very special person. She had a huge heart, and a love for her family and heritage. She will be missed.