Rita M. Wilson

Rita Mae Wilson, age 68, of Mindenmines, passed away Wednesday, November 25, 2009 at Barton County Memorial Hospital, following a long illness.        Rita was born February 19, 1941, at Eagle Grove, Iowa, one of the ten children of Marlon and Vera Mae (Beireis) Akins.  She was married to Donald Eugene Wilson for 27 years before he preceded her in death in 1988.   She was also preceded in death by two brothers, Roy and Billy Akins; and a grandson, Donald Wayne.         In addition to being a homemaker, Rita was a child care provider in her home for many years.  She was a member of Mindenmines Christian Church and had been an active volunteer in her community.        Survivors include her companion of 14 years, Jack Kelsey; a son and daughter-in-law, Don & Mindy Wilson, Lamar; two daughters, Sherriee & husband Gary Simpson, Sheldon, and Velda Wilson of the home; four brothers, Richard, Robert, Michael and Wayne Akins; three sisters, Judy Marko, Betty Lawson, and Patricia Hilz; three grandchildren, Misty Greene, Casey Wilson, and Colton Wilson; and five great-grandchildren.        Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, November 30th, at Daniel Funeral Home in Lamar where the family will receive friends from 5:00 until 6:00 p.m. Sunday.  Burial will be in Lake Cemetery in Lamar.        Memorial contributions are suggested to American Cancer Society or charity of the donor’s choice, in care of Daniel Funeral Home.