Rita Lester, Prairie du Chien, died Saturday, April 5, 2014 at the Prairie Maison Healthcare Center.

She was born November 1, 1919 in LaCrosse, the daughter of Aloysius and Anna (McNamara) Gillitzer.

She graduated from Aquinas High School, La Crosse, in 1937 and continued her education at Vernon County Normal School, graduating in 1939. She taught in rural public schools in Crawford County for several years.

A Mass of Christian burial will be Thursday, April 10, 2014 at 11:30 a.m. at St. Gabriel Church of the Holy Family Parish with burial in Calvary Cemetery in Prairie du Chien.

Friends may call on Wednesday, April 9, 2014 from 4-7 p.m. at the Garrity Funeral Home in Prairie du Chien with a Rosary at 3:45.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Prairie Catholic School Library. www.garrityfuneralh