Rita Hengel joined our father in Heaven Wednesday, February 10, 2021.  She was born July 31, 1937 in Winona County.  Rita graduated from St. Charles High School where she was 1954 Centennial Princess and a freshman homecoming attendant.

She was married to James Fugleberg in 1958 for 12 years before they divorced.  They had 2 daughters; Lori Nuttall and Lisa Fugleberg.  Rita cherished her girls and was the best mother anyone could have.

Rita married David Hengel in 1974.  She raised David's 3 children; John, Steve and Machelle; with him like they were her own.   David and Rita have been blessed with 47 years of marriage.

Rita worked as a surgical technician at St. Marys Hospital where she was involved in the very first cardiac bypass cases.  She joined McDonalds in 1969 where she truly flourished as both a leader and mentor.  Rita won many awards as the first female manager of McDonalds including Outstanding Manager 12 years consequently, Outstanding McDonalds Restaurant and 1981 YWCA Women's Achievement Award.  She was extremely proud of her accomplishments but mostly so dedicated to those she worked with.  They were like her family.

Rita was a beautiful person both inside and out.  Always dressed to the nines for any occasion.  One of her hobbies was shopping and "Oh Boy" was she good at it!  She also loved dancing and motorcycling with David.  Rita loved the times spent with her children and grandchildren.  She was always excited to attend any of their events.

Rita was preceded in death by her parents; Joe and Celia Ryan and her 6 siblings; Earl, Glen, Lyle, Lois, Lorraine and Carol.  She will be so happy to be reunited with them in heaven.

She is survived by her husband, the love of her life, David Hengel; daughters, Lori (Greg) Nuttall and Lisa Fugleberg (Fiancé, Stephen Smith); stepchildren, John (Kim) Hengel, Steve (Connie) Hengel and Machelle (Charlie) Hengel; grandchildren, Elle, Austin, Chace (Kristi) and Ava Nuttall, Christopher, Dominque and Alex Hengel, Nicholas and Sarah Hengel and Jade and Cole Hengel; great-granddaughter, Vera.

We feel so blessed to have had her throughout our lives.  We know we have an angel in heaven shining a light over us.  We will miss you forever!

The Memorial Service will be held at 1:00pm Tuesday, February 16, 2021 at Trinity Lutheran Church with Rev. Nathaniel Schwartz officiating.