Rita Jean Bruening

A Life to Remember and Celebrate

Rita Jean Bruening

On October 21, 1945 Rita Jean was born to Joseph and Colette (Underberg) Rosener in Carroll, Iowa.  As the 9^th of 10 children, she grew up on a farm in Vail, Iowa.  After graduating from high school, she attended convent in Clinton, Iowa, which was short-lived after meeting a handsome seminary student named Richard.  On August 14, 1965, she and Richard Bruening were married in Vail, Iowa.  They resided in Mapleton, Iowa, for 15 years where they farmed and raised 6 children.  In 1980, they fulfilled the dream of purchasing their own farm and moved to Newcastle, Nebraska.  The following year Rita gave birth to their 7^th and final (& favorite!) child.  Rita spent her days on the farm cooking, cleaning, sewing, gardening, canning, doing endless loads of laundry, refinishing all of the wood in the farmhouse, assisting Rich with farm-related tasks, and eventually homeschooling her children.  She was active in attending and serving in church and always looked for opportunities to bless others, especially with her beautifully decorated cakes.  After her children were grown, Rita assumed the role of “Ma” to her 17 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.  She loved to spend time with them baking, playing outside, teaching them how to garden, and especially beating them in Rummikub.  She also had cleaning jobs at the Willis Animal Clinic and the homes of a few friends. 

The most important part of Rita’s life was her relationship with the Lord.  She loved Him with all her heart and endeavored to serve Him in all she did.  She is known for her strong prayer life and giving godly counsel to those seeking advice.  If you are reading this, chances are you have been a recipient.

Rita went home to be with Jesus on December 5th, 2023 and will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by her husband of 58 years, Richard; four daughters: Dawn (Ron) Boutch of Harrisburg, SD, Gina (Terry) Taschuk of Elko, MN, Deb (Jason) Obester of Hollister, MO, Cindy (Derek) Gale of Newcastle, NE;  three  sons: Steven Bruening of Newcastle, NE, Dennis Bruening and his wife Heather of Newcastle, NE, Nathan Bruening and his wife Jackie of Newcastle, NE;  her 17 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren, 8 siblings, and numerous nephews and nieces. 

She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Joyce.

A Memorial Service will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 16, 2023 at the Morningside Assembly of God Church, 4310 Old Lakeport Road, Sioux City, Iowa.  In lieu of flowers, family requests donations be made to the Morningside Assembly of God Church.