Rita Ann (Grode) Verholtz, 83, Apache Junction, Arizona, passed away November 4, 2021, at her home. She was born September 27, 1938, in South Dakota, to Henry and Mathilda (Krause) Grode.

Rita graduated from St. Pius X High School, in Downey, California. She retired from Special Devices, Inc, Mesa, AZ, after more than 10 years of service.

She enjoyed travelling, attending musicals, reading and, most importantly, her family. Her most notable accomplishment was working the Exxon Valdez oil spill.

She is survived by her six daughters, Mary Jo Marshall, Michelle Richards, Carron (Ted) Liberda, Patrice Verholtz, Lisa Katona, and Linda (Jon) Erickson and 21 grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Mathilda Grode, brothers Frank and Bert Grode, sister Leone (Grode) Snowden, one son, Joseph William Verholtz III and one grandson, William Henry Sandlin.

Arrangements are with Superstition Cremation and Funeral Services