Rita C. Zerial (nee Zemaitis), age 75, of Portage, IN and formerly of Chicago, IL, passed away on Saturday, January 13, 2024.

Rita was born on April 25, 1948 in Chicago, IL to the late William and Clara (nee Sarkauskas) Zemaitis.  She was a graduate of Kelly High School, Class of 1966.  Rita married Joseph Zerial on April 29, 1967 and spent 56 loving years together.  She was a member of Nativity of Our Savior Catholic Church.

Rita had Multiple Sclerosis and was a fearless warrior who fought hard against her diagnosis.  She was lovingly referred to as Wonder Woman for her tenacity and strength.  Rita had a witty sense of humor and loved telling jokes.  She loved her window decorations, the game show network, Saturday morning cartoons, dance, and flowers.  Most of all, Rita treasured her family and loved to be with them.  She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend who will be missed deeply.

Rita is survived by her husband: Joe; daughters: Lisa (Rob) Karwatka and Barbara (nee Zerial) Brown; grandchildren: Dustin Brown and Kelly Karwatka; great-grandson: Jake Brauer; sister: Loretta "Lori" Zemaitis; sister-in-law: Rose (Clem) Lewandowski; nieces: Michele (Rick) Krzyminski and Mary (Jake) Middleton; and a host of extended family and beloved friends.

Family and friends may gather at Nativity of Our Savior Catholic Church (2949 Willowcreek Rd., Portage) on Wednesday, January 17, 2024 from 10:00-11:00 A.M.  A Mass of Christian Burial will follow immediately after visitation at 11:00 A.M. with Fr. Kevin McCarthy officiating.  At Rest, McCool Cemetery.