Rita Theresa Blum

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• Rita Theresa Blum, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at Marinuka Manor in Galesville, WI, the town where she was born. She was 90 years old.
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She married Ralph Blum, with whom she built a beautiful life and family in Bluff Siding, WI. A devoted homemaker and stay-at-home mom, Rita worked alongside her husband, Ralph, supporting his butchering business. Rita’s dedication extended beyond her home, as she instilled her strong values of faith, compassion, and generosity in everyone around her.

As a devout member of St. Casimir’s Catholic Church, Rita said the rosary daily and donated faithfully to the church and its associated charities. Her unwavering devotion to her faith and her commitment to helping those less fortunate inspired her family, encouraging them to embrace and reflect these values in their own ways.

Rita was preceded in death by her infant son, Mark; her husband, Ralph; her parents, Clarence and Katherine Haefel; and her siblings, Roland (Barbara) Haefel, Earl (Donna) Haefel, and Ramona (Curtis) Marsh. 

She is survived by her children, Megan (Bruce) Husser, Ralph (Cathy) Blum Jr., Stephen Blum, Theresa (Brian) Fedie, and Mary (Larry) Stiehl; grandchildren, Ashley Blum, Abby Husser, Angela (Carl) Olson, Michael (Katie) Nelton, Alexa Rydman, and Jacob Rydman; and great-grandchildren Tristan and Evan Olson, Joleighanna and Jenivieve Nelton.

Rita was a vibrant soul who brought joy to every room she entered. She loved playing Bingo, enjoying countless cups of coffee, and dancing to polka music, often grabbing the nearest partner to twirl around the room. Despite having only an eighth-grade education, she was a voracious learner with an insatiable curiosity for history and language. Her family fondly recalls her frequent trips to the dictionary or encyclopedia, reminding everyone that, “You learn something new every day.”

Her greatest joy in life was taking care of her children and grandchildren. She loved children and delighted in fostering her family’s interests and hobbies. Whether it was cheering at softball games, crafting together at the kitchen table, or watching endless Disney movies—even if it meant rewinding the same scene over and over—she was always hands-on and eager to participate. Most of all, she expressed her love through cooking and baking. Everyone cherished her family recipes, from her meticulously decorated Christmas sugar cookies to her comforting dumpling soup. These traditions and recipes will be lovingly carried on by her family.

She had a deep and loving connection with those she cherished, always eager to show her affection through hugs, kisses, and holding hands. The simple act of touch brought her a sense of peace and joy, and she had a special way of making others feel loved through her warmth and closeness.

Rita’s kindness, generosity, and laughter will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her. In her honor, her family kindly asks that you say a prayer for Rita—it will mean the world to her.

Visitation will be held from 12:30 PM until the Mass of Christian Burial at 1:30 PM on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at St. Casimir’s Catholic Church, 626 W. Broadway, Winona. The Very Reverend Mark C. McNea will officiate. Rita will be laid to rest at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Rita’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.