VERONA - Rita Mary Derezinski, age 76, of Verona, passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at Oakwood Hebron Oaks. She was born on June 11, 1950, in Stevens Point, Wis., the daughter of Edwin and Theresa (Schultz) Derezinski.

Rita graduated from Maria High School in Stevens Point and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Throughout her distinguished career, she was a respected business executive, serving in senior leadership roles. She retired after a career spanning more than three decades in business development, financial services, banking and operations management, where she was recognized for her strategic leadership and innovation. Earlier in her career, Rita was principal and general partner of a Housing and Development consulting service and served as the first executive director of both the Dane County and Portage County Housing Authorities, helping establish and lead both agencies.

Rita was known for her positive spirit and genuine kindness. She cherished spending time with family, friends, and her 10 nieces and nephews, creating lasting memories through gatherings, heartfelt conversations, and storytelling. She was always the first to step up when someone needed a helping hand, whether volunteering her time to prepare tax returns for those in need, supporting charitable organizations or simply offering support to family and friends. Her generosity, compassion and unwavering willingness to help others touched countless lives, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Rita was a passionate advocate for women's rights and believed deeply in equality, fairness and opportunity for all. She was committed to giving back to her community, serving on numerous charitable and industry boards throughout her career and generously supporting organizations that improved the lives of others. A devoted fan of the Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin Badgers, Rita also found great joy in cheering on her favorite teams.

Rita is survived by her brother, Frank Derezinski; sisters-in-law, Judy Derezinski and Sue Derezinski; brother-in-law, Jere Fluno; and 10 loving nieces and nephews, along with their families. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edwin and Theresa Derezinski; sisters, Rose (John) McIlhone and Anne Fluno; brother, Richard Derezinski; infant brother, Norbert Derezinski; and nephew, Michael McIlhone.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. PETER CATHOLIC CHURCH, 800 Fourth Ave., Stevens Point, Wis., at 11 a.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2026. Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Rita's life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Catholic Charities Diocese of Madison, World Wildlife Fund, Habitat for Humanity, or a charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com <http://www.gundersonfh.com>.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Rita Derezinski

June 11, 1950 - July 21, 2026

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