Rita Hanselman

February 10, 1937 - December 24, 2012

Rita Hanselman, 75 of West Bend, died Monday December 24 at her home in West Bend. Services will be held Saturday, December 29, 2012, 10:30 AM at Peace Lutheran Church in West Bend with burial to follow in the West Bend Cemetery. Visitation is from 4-7 PM Friday at the church. Harris Funeral Home in West Bend is handling arrangements. Rita Rae (Higgason) the daughter of Wallace and Annabelle Higgason was born February 10, 1937 in Eldora, Iowa. She was raised and educated in West Bend, grauduating from the West Bend High School in 1955. She continued her education at La James Hairstyling in Mason City. On April 14, 1961 she was united in marriage with Donald Hanselman in West Bend. The couple lived in West Bend during their married lives where Rita owned and operated Rita's Beauty Shop for 53 years. Survivors include her husband Donald, West Bend, IA, children: Lisa (Peter)Woldberg of Johnstown, Colorado, Steve (Lori) Hanselman of Sioux Falls,SD, Kelly(Nicki) Hanselman of Solon, IA, Jeff(Jeni) Hanselman of Omaha NE, and Jimmy(Kellie) Hanselman of Temecula, CA, 11 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister Annalee Higgason. Rita was a member of Peace Lutheran Church, West Bend. She enjoyed doing hair and was dedicated to her loyal clients, making sure they received her services for as long as she was able. Her favorite time was spent with her children and grandchildren,and enjoyed traveling to visit family to keep up on their latest activities. Painting her nails with grandchildren was a special time for her. Rita was an avid John Wayne fan and pet lover. She was survived by 10 dogs. She was feisty in spirit and enjoyed bantering with friends over a cup of coffee daily. She enjoyed cooking and made a great roast for Sunday dinners. Rita also took pride in keeping a clean house and teaching her children to do the same.