Rita Judith Bucheli

Rita’s life was a testament to love, faith, and resilience. She was the devoted mother of six: Hilda (Robert), Fausto Jr. (Ann), Veronica, Helen (Markus), Rita (Stephen), and Derek.

She was the proud and loving grandmother of 14: Randy, Amber, Nicholas; Tito, Bella; Alexander, Katalina, Caleb; Megan, Miranda; Dominique, Dariane, Ashley, and Demi. The great-grandmother of Levi, Kiara, Maddy, Luna, and Isla.

An immigrant who met every challenge with courage and grit, Rita earned two master’s degrees and poured her heart into her children and education. She taught at South Adams in Berne, Indiana, continued her career at Pomona Unified, inspired college students at Citrus College, and empowered adults teaching English as a Second Language at Chaffey Unified School District. Her brilliance, compassion, and belief in the power of learning left a lasting impact.

Rita filled her home with laughter, faith, poetry, music, and love. Known as the “Dancing Queen,” she brought joy and sparkle to every room, especially around her dinner table where food and conversation were sacred rituals. Her romantic spirit, quick wit, and welcoming heart made her unforgettable.

She leaves behind a legacy of fierce love, faith, strength, and inspiration.

Her spirit will echo in our lives. Her memory forever a blessing and her stories shared for generations.