Rita M. Hankel

Rita M. Hankel, 94, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, passed away peacefully at her home April 19, 2026. She was born May 14, 1931, in Scott, Louisiana, to Rene Boneau Sr. and Edmay Anderson Boneau. Rita was a proud graduate of the Louisiana School for the Deaf and dedicated much of her life to serving others through her work at LSD, where she served as Dormitory Counselor. She was a member of the Louisiana Acadiana Deaf Blind Citizens, St. Francis de Sales Church for the Deaf, and St. Agnes Catholic Church. Rita was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Robert Boneau, Junior Boneau, and Mary Enix Boneau Domingue; her first husband, Frank Bergeron; her second husband, Bernard (Buddy) Hankel; and her beloved great-grandson, Skye Bergeron. Rita is survived by her sons, John Bergeron and Jeff Bergeron and his wife Alecia; grandchildren, Felicia Bergeron and Jesse Bergeron and his wife Winnie Diaz-Bergeron; and great-grandchildren, Syann Riquelme and Ayana Bergeron. She also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who will cherish her memory. Visitation will be held at Rabenhorst Funeral Home East, 11000 Florida Blvd., Friday, April 24th, 4:30 to 8:00 pm. There will be a recitation of the Rosary at 6:00 pm followed by a service at 6:30 pm. Burial will be at Magnolia Cemetery in Houma Saturday, April 25th for the immediate family. Rita will be remembered for her devotion to family, faith, and community, and for the kindness and strength she shared throughout her life. Her legacy will live on in all who knew and loved her. The family extends their appreciation to the staff of Our Lady of the Lake Hospital and Audubon Hospice for their care and compassion, and to Kenny David, Rita’s long-time friend and advocate.