Date of Interment:
May 03, 2025
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On September 22, 1943, the world became a better place when a little ray of sunshine named Rita Mary was born to Edward and Mildred (Ziener) Trautman in Allegheny County, PA. It was there that she lived the farm life before moving a few times, to Vero Beach and back to Pennsylvania, making lifelong friends at both VBHS and Knoch High in Saxonburg. Before graduating high school in 1961, she acquired a know-it-all boyfriend, Dennis Widenhofer, who she married in 1963 and lovingly tolerated for 62 years.
Rita graduated from Passavant Nursing School in Pittsburgh in 1963. After a few years of moving around the country and having kids, Rita and Dennis settled down in 1966 in Vero Beach, where she enjoyed a now-legendary nursing career at IRMH and several elder care facilities. She was a member of the Community Church of Vero Beach and also attended services at Ryanwood Fellowship and Tabernacle Ministries.
Having lived a long and happy life, Rita left us on April 5th, surrounded by family. We assume she has moved back in with her parents, somewhere in the Great Beyond.
Rita is survived by her husband, Dennis Widenhofer, her brother Edward Trautman and his wife Mary Ann, and her daughter Linda Hagen, as well as their families in Vero Beach; her son Robert Widenhofer and his family in Austin, TX, and countless friends and extended family in Pennsylvania and Florida.
Graveside service will be held Saturday, May 3rd at 10:00AM at Crestlawn Cemetery in Vero Beach, directly followed by a reception at Tabernacle Ministries, 51 Old Dixie Hwy. Rita loved cats. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Humane Society of Vero Beach & Indian River County.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
© 2025 Lowther Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved.
Nina Thrasher - In law
April 10, 2025, 7:50 pm
What a lovely photo of lovely Rita!! She will be missed!! With sympathy from the Thrasher family
Laura Garcia - Emergency Medicine Physician who cared for Rita
April 10, 2025, 8:16 pm
I want to send my deepest condolences to Rita’s family. It was a privilege to care for her during her most vulnerable times, and I will always remember her strength and resilience. Each time that I took care of Rita, it was clear how deeply she was loved. Your family’s devotion, warmth, and constant support were extraordinary, and it was an honor to witness such a bond. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. My thoughts are with all of you during this difficult time. -Sincerely, Dr. Laura Garcia
Eric Donaldson - Friend
April 10, 2025, 11:37 pm
The Donaldson family extends our heartfelt condolences to the Widenhofer family. Prayers of comfort and peace during this difficult time.
Kelly Hagen
April 11, 2025, 7:13 pm
Linda my heart breaks for you. I will always remember your mom smiling. Lots of prayers for you and your familt.
Patrick Jordan - Friend
April 12, 2025, 7:24 pm
Sincerest condolences to Dennis, Bob, Linda and the entire extended family. Rita’s kindness will always be remembered.