Obituary of Rita Mae Fongheiser

Rita M Fongheiser, 88, of Akron, Ohio passed away on Thursday, January 31, 2013 surrounded by her family. She was born on November 17, 1924 to the late Hilda and James Seibert. Rita spent her life caring for others as a devoted wife of 57 years to the late James Fongheiser, and as a mother to 6 children. Preceded in death by her brother James Seibert and son Daniel Fongheiser, she is survived by daughters, Beth (Ken) Rusinoff; Mary (Jay) O'Connor, Judy (Jim) Buehrle, Tina (Dave) Murren, and Nancy (Jim) Eckman; special nephew, Bill (Trisha) Seibert and sister, Joanne (Joe) Koza; 16 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Rita was known for her extraordinary ability to entertain, cook and bake. Her pies were a favorite among many. She was an avid fan of the Cleveland Indians and especially the Browns. Her proudest achievement was her devoted family. She was never happier than when her family was all together. The family would like to extend their gratitude to the nurses and staff of Western Reserve Hospital Hospice for all the kindness and support offered to Rita and the family in this very difficult time. Calling hours will be held from 4-7PM on Friday, Feb.1 at Anthony Funeral Home, 1990 South Main St. in Akron. A Funeral service will be held at St. Paul's Catholic Church, 1580 Brown St. in Akron on Saturday Feb. 2 at 10:30AM with internment to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery. In remembrance of Rita, donations may be made to The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation at 6100 Rockside Woods Blvd, Suite 445, Independence, OH 44131. (Anthony, Akron, anthonyfh.com, 330.724.1281)