Rita E. Coalwell

Rita E. Coalwell age 72 of Detroit Lakes, MN died Tuesday February 21, 2012 at her residence, under the care of Hospice of the Red River Valley. Rita Elizabeth Coalwell was born on September 8, 1939 in Little Falls, MN, to Leo and Josephine Gamroth Marsolek. She grew up and attended school in Little Falls, graduating from Little Falls High School in 1958. Following high school, Rita attended nursing school in Brainerd, MN. She moved to California where she briefly worked as a nurse. She returned to Little Falls and was united in marriage to Robert A. Coalwell in November of 1963. They made their home and raised their family on Big Floyd Lake near Detroit Lakes. Rita resided there until her death. Rita treasured time spent with her family and friends, especially her grandchildren. She also enjoyed bowling and bingo. Rita collected dolls and antique strollers. She was a volunteer for Meals on Wheels for many years. Rita is survived by her three daughters, Ann Coalwell Springer, of Moorhead, MN; Cindy (Tim) Moe, of Brainerd, MN; and Paula (Chris) Okeson, of Detroit Lakes, MN; ten grandchildren, Anthony Springer, Katherine Springer, Chrissy Carlson, Andy Springer, Joseph Coalwell, Bailey Moe Sweet, Elizabeth Moe, Hannah Okeson, Katrina Okeson and Cora Okeson; two great grandchildren; one sister, Loretta Lattimer, of Little Falls, MN; many nieces and nephews. Rita was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Robert (1982); one daughter, Sharon Coalwell; three sisters, Margaret Crary, Thersesa Gammon, and Darlene White; and an infant brother, Conrad.