Rita (Jansen) King

Rita (Jansen) King was called home to her eternal rest on Thursday, December 25, 2025, at the age of 82. She passed away peacefully surrounded by loving family members. Born August 9, 1943, Rita was a lifelong Fort Wayne resident. She graduated from Central Catholic High School in 1961, where she formed many lasting cherished friendships. Consequently, she loved participating in the planning and organizing of class reunions to reunite those friendships. She dedicated many years to volunteering and taking leadership roles in her children’s educational and sporting activities. Additionally, she loved working in the rectory at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. She will be remembered for her kindness, quick wit and contagious laughter that brightened any room she entered. Her warmth, generosity and faith left a lasting impression on all who were blessed to know her. Rita’s most joyful times were when she was surrounded with friends and family. As a devoted Notre Dame fan, she could captivate a room by showcasing her cheerleading skills while supporting her team. Rita is survived by her children, Deborah (Dodd) Kattman, Jeffrey, and Tina; five grandchildren, Nicholas, Alexandra, Braden, Derek, and Hannah; her sister, Bette Lindley; and brother, Rudy Jansen. She was preceded in death by her parents, Marie and Rudolf Jansen; and her two sisters, Shirley Peel and Mary Lou Bienz. A gathering of family and friends will be held from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Friday, January 2, 2026, at Greenlawn Funeral Home, 6750 Covington Road, Fort Wayne. Donations can be made in her name to Humane Fort Wayne or St. Mary’s Soup Kitchen reflecting her love for animals and her commitment to her Catholic faith. Condolences and memories can be left online at www.greenlawnmpfh.com