M. Rita Wessing

Mary Rita Wessing, age 92, passed away on Thursday, July 7, 2022. Rita was born on February 17, 1930, in Freeport, Illinois, the daughter of the late Dennis and Frieda (Wiegand) Scott. She graduated from Aquin High School in 1947. She graduated from Clark College in 1951 with a degree in Sociology and a minor in Psychology. She married Reinhart J. Wessing on September 10, 1955, at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Freeport, Illinois.

In addition to being a fulltime wife and mother, Rita volunteered (as well as being volunteered) when her children were in school. She volunteered throughout her life; teaching CCD, delivering Meals on Wheels, being Director of Program for Domestic Violence, singing in the church choir and many other activities. She was always there for her family, supporting Reiny in his Deaconate work and supporting her children whenever they needed her.

Rita’s Alma Mater awarded her the 1994 Alumni Family Award for dedication to the ideals of the Christian family.  In 2006 she was presented The Judy Schumacher Award in recognition of her leadership and faithful service to the Diaconate Community of the Diocese of Green Bay.

Rita is survived by her children: Therese (Al) Canales, Mark and Matthew Wessing; 7 grandchildren: Alex (Lynda) Duff, Megan Duff, William and Beth Canales, Nick (Tamarine) Wessing, Steve Wessing, and Emily (Mike) Cohen; 3 great-grandchildren and 2 more on the way; nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

Rita was preceded in death by her husband, Reinhart; daughters: Mary and Bridget Wessing; brother, Donald (Jane) Scott; and a niece, Sandra Scott.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am, on Thursday, July 21, 2022, at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 1810 N. McDonald St., Appleton. Visitation will be on Thursday at the church from 10:00 am until the time of the Mass. Interment will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, Appleton. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are appreciated to St. Thomas More Catholic Church, Appleton; Harbor House, or your local Meals on Wheels organization.