Rita Deitrick

The Lord called Rita Deitrick, of Shenandoah, home on May 29, 2026, at Lehigh Valley Hospital—Schuylkill in Pottsville.

She was the daughter of the late Clarence and Anna Dietrick.

Rita was preceded in death by her loving sisters, Helen Stanell, Mary Lou Whalen, Eileen Wylonis, and Patricia A. Ryan; her nephew, Joe Whalen; and her beloved maternal uncle, Fred Romanchick, her mother Anna's brother, with whom she shared a close bond.

She is survived by her nephews and nieces and their spouses: Frank Whalen, Dennis Whalen and Thomas Loeffel, Mary Jean Whalen, John and Debbie Ryan, Karen and Alberto Ruiz, Michael and Jennifer Ryan, and Kevin and Sandra Ryan; as well as numerous great-nieces and great- nephews.

Rita graduated from Shenandoah Catholic High School in 1960. After high school, she proudly served her country as a medic in the U.S. Air Force. She later worked in the packaging industry and went on to become a licensed practical nurse.

Rita loved the outdoors and animals. She taught many of her nieces and nephews how to fish, swim, and ride horses. Dogs and cats were always an important part of her life. She also enjoyed watching the Phillies and taking an occasional trip to the casino, where a good win — like a Phillies victory — always brought a smile to her face. Rita will be remembered for her independent spirit, her love of family, her compassion for animals, and the joy she brought to those who knew her.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Rita's life. A viewing will be held at Oravitz Home for Funerals Inc., 40 N. Jardin Street, Shenandoah, on Thursday, June 4th from 8:30 to 10:00am. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at St Mary's Roman Catholic Church in Ringtown at 10:30am and will be officiated by Father Dominic Pham. Burial will immediately follow in Annunciation BVM Cemetery, Shenandoah Heights.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Rita's memory to Krazy Kritters Co. in New Ringgold, Hillside SPCA in Pottsville or Ruth Steinert Memorial SPCA in Pine Grove.

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