Obituary of Rita Mae Reinick

Rita Mae Reinick (Sumner), age 83, passed away January 20th, 2024 with her family by her side in Greeley, Colorado. Rita was born on September 5th, 1940 in Dodge, Nebraska to parents Harry and Ione Sumner. In 1954, with her parents and younger brother Jim, she moved to Loveland, Colorado. The family bought the Park Lane Motel on Highway 34, which was a source of fond family memories for Rita.

 

In 1958, she graduated from Loveland High School, where she participated in Pep Club and the Vaudeville Club. She was also crowned St. Pat’s and Wrestling Queen. After graduating, she worked in downtown Loveland at a printer shop. 

 

Rita was the mother of Sheri, Steve, Stacey, and Shannin. She was a well known bartender for many years at the Red Garter Lounge in Greeley and flagged traffic at various construction sites. She received a business degree at Aims Community College and worked an administrative position at the University of Northern Colorado. Some of her favorite things to do were flower gardening, canning, crafting, and fishing.

 

She enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren, whether that be cooking, movie-night sleepovers, or going on camping trips. Her vibrant spirit was ever-present whether she was dancing or cheering on the Broncos. She was ecstatic to become a great grandma (GG) to Mavey and couldn’t wait for the arrival of another great granddaughter baby Santeramo due in April. 

 

Rita will be remembered for her fiery spirit, an unyielding sense of humor, and her natural ability to make friends wherever she went. 

 

Rita is survived by her children: Sheri, Steven (Robin), Stacey (Mike), and Shannin (Danny); grandchildren: Landen (Neely), Jorden (Chelsea), Taylor (Bryce), Tory (Tessa), and Ethan (Nikki) great grandchildren: Mavey; and her step grandchildren:Kyle (Brittaney), Katelin (Adama); step great grandchildren: Klaryssa, Savannah, Wynston, Dantae and Kairo; and her brother: Jim (Darcy), nephew Jim Jr., and niece, Jillian. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Ione Sumner.

 

 

A Celebration of Rita's Life will be held on Monday, February 26th, 3:00pm at Garden Square Assisted Living Facility, 3151 W. 20th, Greeley CO 80634. Following with an Open House from 6:00-8:00pm at Santeramos Pizza House, 1229 10th Ave, Greeley CO 80631.

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