RITA DIANE FREEMAN

Rita Diane Freeman, caring wife, mother, "Bebe", sister, and friend left this world on July 24, 2021 at the age of 69.

Rita was born July 13, 1952 at Travis Air Force Base in California to Russell and Jean (Barry) Wessels. The oldest of three daughters she was sister to Susan McNiel and Donna Minkel whom she spoke of often and loved dearly. Rita grew up in a military family and traveled across the country and world throughout her childhood.

Rita moved to Kansas City in 1970 where she married the love of her life, her high school sweetheart Richard Freeman. Together, they had two children, Nicholas Freeman (wife Natalie) and Melissa (Freeman) Coffman (husband Jaycee) and three amazing grandchildren, Noah and Nora Freeman and Aven "Bean" Coffman. Rita's family was her absolute pride and joy, her heart and soul.

After completing her education, Rita began her career as a microbiologist. She diligently worked her way up from the lab bench to management and retired in 2018. Through her working years Rita was a friend and mentor to many.

Rita was a nature gal and loved anything that came from the earth. She was always ready to get her hands in the dirt. She was the rescuer of all living things; person, plant or animal. She was dedicated to caring for the lost, stray or broken who seemed destined to find their way to her. She always had time to listen, a shoulder to cry on and the spirit and strength to get you up and going again.

Rita, you were truly one of a kind and will be deeply missed by all who knew you.

A Celebration of Life will be held August 2nd from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm at Dogwood Gardens in Peculiar, MO. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Rita's honor to HELP Humane Society (helphumane.org), 17122 Bel-Ray Place, Belton, MO 64012.

Arrangements: Cullen Funeral Home, Raymore, Missouri 64083