Thursday, March 20, 2014
Rita was such a special person and I feel fortunate to have known her through our work in the Missouri state park system. Our paths often crossed and many times we shared trips and hotel rooms while attending conferences. The most memorable trip we took together was to Washington DC - the First Presidential Conference where historic sites managers gathered to share the insights of their site. There were people there from the National Parks, State Parks, Private Foundations and other organizations. Rita and I represented the Harry S Truman Birthplace and were honored to meet David McCullough who had just written the Truman biography. She was so at ease because it was apparent that she loved her work and had a smile for everyone we met. Our travel (by car) was also a real adventure! On the way out, we drove into a sleet storm in the mountains of West Virginia, but just pulled over at a rest stop for a short time, to let the storm pass. Then on the last morning of the conference with a lunch planned (where we were seated with Mr. McCullough) a major snow storm was coming from the south heading toward Washington. We finished our lunch, threw our suitcases into the car, and started driving northwest through Maryland. We drove non-stop till we reached Indiana, hearing all the time about the big storm hitting the east coast behind us. We out-ran the storm, and made it home safely the next day. Whenever I visited with Rita she always made me welcome and we shared stories about family. She was so very proud of her family and all they were accomplishing. Her face lit up when she talked so lovingly about you all and she always wanted the best for you. What a treasure you had in your lives, and those treasured memories will help you through the sad days ahead. I wish I could join you to celebrate Rita's life, but I will keep her (and you) in my thoughts and prayers as the days go on. Funny, I always think of Rita when there is a reference to your part of the state and those memories are what a special person she was and wonderful friend I made in the park system.
