Rita Andersen 07/29/2026

Rita M. Andersen

07/29/2026

Rita Marlene Andersen, age 83, passed away peacefully at the Deerfield in New Richmond, Wisconsin on Wednesday, July 29, 2026 surrounded by her loving family. She was born on April 6, 1943 in Menomonie, Wisconsin to George and Mary (Dunnigan) Milliron. Rita married the love of her life, Walter Andersen, on July 1, 1967 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in New Richmond, Wisconsin. Together they were blessed with two sons, George (Tage) & Terry.

Rita graduated from New Richmond High School.  While in school, she worked at the concession stand at the Old Gem Theater. She later worked at a bank in the Twin Cities before starting her family.  After she and Walter purchased a dairy farm, Rita helped with the daily farm work while raising her family in a loving home. She retired in the early 2000s, and she and Walter expanded their garden.  She enjoyed canning vegetables for her family and selling fresh produce at the local farmers market, where they were longtime vendors for many years. She was an avid walker, rarely missing her daily six-mile walk. She was deeply devoted to her faith and faithfully attended church every weekend. Her granddaughters held a special place in Rita’s heart, and she lovingly referred to them as her “pride and joy.”

Rita and Walter gave their family a beautiful life and they will be forever missed.

Rita is survived by her son – Terry (Paula) Andersen, granddaughters – Megan, Jaclyn and Brooke, two sisters – Judy (Joe) Casey and Pat Kneringer as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, in-laws, relatives and friends.

Rita is preceded in death by her parents – George and Mary Milliron, her loving husband – Walter Andersen, son – George (Tage) Andersen, brother – George Milliron Jr., sisters – Monica Roy, Mary Elizabeth (Betty) Forrest, Sarah Lyons and Jean Potter.

A private family ceremony/celebration of life will be held.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Lakeview Hospice or The Deerfield.

Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.