Rita Michelsen Obituary

Michelsen, Rita Mae Passed away peacefully on September 13, 2016, at the age of 96. Rita was born in Chicago and grew up adoring her twin brother, Bill. Their father died in a tragic streetcar accident when they were young and they were raised by their mom, Lizette. Rita worked as a billing clerk at U.S. Steel her entire career, retiring in 1981. Beginning in 1960, she resided on Clarence Avenue in Berwyn, living with her mother in a two-flat above her brother, Bill Michelsen and his family. She then spent many years enjoying the camaraderie of senior citizens at Lyon's Grove Apartments on Carr Court in Lyons, and most recently resided at Cantata's The Laurels in Brookfield. After retirement, she enjoyed lunches, shopping, and movies with friends, regularly attended St. Leonard's Parish in Berwyn and St. Hugh's in Lyons, and selflessly cared for and assisted her many friends and neighbors. She continued driving into her 90's, always willing to escort and transport them to doctor appointments, church, or shopping. She regularly remembered her nieces and nephews with birthday and holiday cards, was always anxious to inquire and know about their lives and families, and spent many holidays with them. One of Rita's greatest joys was the companionship of her cockatiel, Nikki, who also preceded her in death. Nikki could be found perched in Rita's arm, chatting away, and reminding her that "Nikki loves Rita." Special thanks to Rita's caregiver, Charlotte Sprinkle for being such a good friend the past few years. Rita was preceded in death by her parents, Lizette and William Michelsen; twin brother, Bill Michelsen; and great-niece, Joy Michelsen. She is survived by sister-in-law, Lilian Michelsen of Indianapolis, Indiana; nieces, Diane Rocush (Al) of Phoenix, Arizona an Jan Michelsen of Indianapolis; and nephew, Ron Michelsen (Dawn) of Freeland, Washington. Also surviving her are four great-nieces/nephews, Melanie (Mark) Bohn, Jeff Rocush, Erica (Chad DeVille) Rocush and Peter (Rachel) Michelsen, and great-great-nephew, Will Michelsen. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 20, 2016 from 9:00 a.m. until time of service 12:00 noon at FORAN FUNERAL HOME, 7300 W. Archer Ave. (55th St. just West of Harlem). Interment Mount Olivet Cemetery, 2755 W. 111th St., Chicago, IL. Please visit Rita's personal tribute website at www.foranfuneralhome.com and sign her guestbook. For information, 708-458-0208.