Mrs. Rita A. Knuffman
Mrs. Rita A. Knuffman, age 97, of rural Liberty, Il died surrounded by her family on Sunday, March 13, 2022 at 8:37 a.m. in her home. Rita was born in Richfield Township, IL on November 23, 1924, a daughter of Henry and Faye (Brown) Schwartz. She married Cyril L. Knuffman on November 12, 1941, in Liberty’s St. Brigid Catholic Church. The couple shared a deep love for each other and the many blessings of a large family. Cyril preceded her in death June 14, 2001.
Rita was truly the matriarch of her family and had a tremendous impact on each, and every one of her children, their spouses, and their children. As a devout woman of faith, she was a longtime and active member of St. Brigid Catholic Church.
An avid gardener, she tended to acres of produce, canning and freezing what she grew. She would set goals for this important work that would often require another round of planting. Rita was a wonderful cook and baker, known for her pies and ability to prepare the most delicious meals with farm-raised beef and pork, as well as, wild game. She always ate her own meal after everyone else had enough to eat, and she was skilled at letting nothing go to waste. She was a nurturing and comforting presence in the lives of those who knew her, and she was always ready to hold the hand of those she loved.
Rita had an amazing zest for life and a delightful sense of humor. She was adventuresome, taking trips as far away as New York City, Haiti, and Jamaica. She embraced new experiences with an open mind, like eating snails on a cruise ship, but she was perfectly content at home. Until recently, she had lived independently and was happy completing puzzles, taking rides on the side-by-side through the family property, checking on the garden and flowers.
Surviving are her nine children: Judy Summers and her husband John of Quincy; Rick Knuffman and his wife Holly of Manville, IL; Dennis Knuffman and his wife Tammy of Liberty; Rita Vogelpohl and her husband Mark of Pittsfield; Janice Wiemelt and her husband Kevin of Liberty; Paula Peter and her husband Rob of Liberty; Veronica Cole and her husband Eric of Amissville, VA; Michelle Ehrhardt and her husband Chris of Liberty and Clint Knuffman of Liberty; A daughter-in-law Ann Knuffman of Atlanta, IL and a son-in-law, Dr. Bruce Mears of Johnston, SC.
She was proud of her 38 Grandchildren, 59 Great-Grandchildren with three on the way and 1 great-great grandchild on the way. Numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives also survive.
Rita was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Cyril; two sons, Cyril D. Knuffman and Joseph L. Knuffman and his wife Paula; three daughters, Sandra S. Mears, Christine M. Knuffman and Doris A. Knuffman; two grandsons, Adam and Zachary Summers.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 19, 2022 at 9:00 a.m. in Duker & Haugh Funeral Home with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. in St. Brigid Catholic Church in Liberty with Rev. Scott Snider and Rev. Chuck Edwards concelebrants. Interment will be in St. Brigid Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday from 3:00 to 7:00 at Duker & Haugh.
Memorials are suggested to St. Brigid Cemetery, Blessing Foundation for HOSPICE or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
Messages may be shared online at www.dukerandhaugh.com
Dear Veronica, So sorry to hear this news. Your mother was a spectacular woman, which doesn’t surprise me knowing you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Warm regards, Terry, Paule, and Aaron.
So sorry to hear of your loss. Thoughts and prayers to the Knuffman family.
To Joe and Luke and your families,
Our family sends sympathy and celebration of your Grandmother’s life and the legacy she created for your family. Andrea and Melanie and Darren and Charlyn join us as we are thinking of you in prayer at this time.
So sorry to hear about your Mother Rita. My Thoughts and Prayers are with all 9 Kid’s & there Spouse’s, Grandchildren, Great-Grandchildren, Great-Great Grandchild on the way. Rita alway’s had a smile on her face. Kind words to say when ever you saw her. GOD BLESS R.I.P. Rita A. Knuffman
Rita and Mark, Dennis and Tammy, I was saddened to see your mother’s obituary, but had to smile when I think of all the beautiful memories you all must have. You were all blessed to have your mom for so many years. She was a lovely, loving woman who will be remembered for the special family she helped to raise. I will always remember her kindness to me when we were growing up. I will be with all of you in spirit this weekend and in the coming days. My deepest condolences.
Dear Family, we are so sorry for your loss. Aunt Rita was a wonderful person and reminded me so much of my grandma. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Sorry to here the loss of your mother. Our thoughts and prayers with the Knuffman family.
Dearest Veronica and Eric, we are holding you in our hearts and prayers. What a beautiful obituary…a life of love and service to others. Sending our sincere condolences and so much love.
Michelle, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all of your family at the loss of your mother.
My lovely friend Veronica Cole, Our deepest the loss of your sweet mother Rita A. Knuffman! I have to tell you that your mother was one of the strongest and the loveliest woman I know. There are only a handful of people on this planet who can live life the way your mother had lived. May her soul rest well in heaven. Our prayers and support are always with you and the family! ☦️ We love you!❤️ Hiwet & Meresie!
Michelle:
Sorry for your loss. Will keep you and family in thoughts and prayers
I am sorry for your loss. She was a sweet beautiful lady.
Ann Knuffman, my deepest condolences.
Michelle and family, we are very sorry for your loss. May God bring you peace.
Dear Family – I am sorry for your loss – I wish you peace