Rita Marie Gehlert

Rita Marie Gehlert, age 66, of Belle, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 18, 2018, at her residence surrounded by her loving family. 

Rita was born on October 11, 1952, in Washington, a daughter to late Joseph Henry and Theresa Grace (Hess) Straatmann. 

Rita was a 1971 graduate of St. Borgia High School.

On September 15, 1973, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Washington, Rita was united in marriage to Robert Gehlert, who survives at their home. 

Rita was employed at Custom Printing in Owensville for 33 years until her health declined and she retired in 2015.

Rita was a devoted member of the St. Alexander Catholic Church in Belle, where she was the church pianist for many years.

Rita enjoyed collecting dolls, shopping, fishing, and working in her flower gardens.

In addition to her husband of 45 years, Rita is survived by: one son, Kenneth J. Gehlert and his wife Michele Haley-Gehlert of Belle; two grandchildren Skyler and Dillon Rice; one brother: Paul A. Straatmann of Washington as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and friends.

In addition to her parents, Rita is preceded in death by two infant sons, Joseph Paul and Gordon Keith Gehlert.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 21, 2018, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Sassmann’s Chapel in Belle with a Prayer service at 1:30 p.m.

Funeral Service will be held on Monday, October 22, 2018, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Alexander Catholic Church in Belle with the Rev. Wayne Boyer and the Rev. James Finder officiating.  Interment will follow in the Liberty Cemetery near Belle.   

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family of Rita Marie Gehlert.

Arrangements are under the direction of Sassmann’s Chapel, Belle, MO. (859-3712)

www.sassmannschapel.com