Rita M. Lehnertz – Rochester

Rita Mary Lehnertz, 90, died peacefully Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, MN surrounded by her four children. Rita was born May 21, 1935, in Wilson, MN, to Andrew and Hedwig Lemmer. Being the oldest of her six siblings she had many responsibilities growing up on the family farm.  Rita was gifted musically, learning how to play many instruments by ear.  She continued to entertain her family throughout her years playing the piano and accordion.  In her early twenties, Rita moved off the family farm to Rochester, MN where she worked at St. Mary's hospital and Julius Estes.

Rita met the love of her life, Ronnie Lehnertz at the Play-mor Ballroom. Six months later they were married on August 16, 1958, at St. Mary's Catholic Church, in Minneiska, MN. She was an extremely dedicated mother to her four children that she raised with Ronnie, teaching them the values of kindness, faith, and family. Rita had the most beautiful smile which lit up any room she entered.  She is known for her compassion, kindness and nurturing heart. Rita's home was always open to family, friends, loving pets and those needing a comforting touch. Rita always had the last "I love you", by countering with, "I love you more", which has touched four generations of her family.

Rita spent her last four years at her apartment at Shorewood, where she enjoyed participating in new activities, developing friendships, and living with joy. Special visits by her family and especially her great & grandchildren were especially cherished!

Rita is survived by her children: Dan (Bonnie) of Rochester, Sue (Richard) of Rochester, Sally (Joel) of Rochester, Lisa of Minneapolis, her siblings: Tony, Anna, Raymond and Marylou; 9 adoring grandchildren; and 6 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ron; brother, Edwin; and her parents.

The Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, September 5, 2025 in the River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home, 1119 11-1/2 Street Southeast, Rochester, MN 55904, with Fr. Klein officiating.

The Visitation will be held at 1:00 pm, prior to the service in the chapel.

Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com.