Rita Helen Gensamer, 94, Altoona, died Saturday at Altoona Regional after an extended illness.
She was born in Dysart, daughter of the late Marcellus and Jane (Shoffner) Wharton. She married Frank Gensamer on Aug. 5, 1939. He preceded her in death Sept. 22, 1965.
Rita was the beloved mother of 10 children and is survived by the following children: Melvin (Betsy) of Chalfont, Rita McCool of San Diego, Calif., Richard of Levittown, Kathleen Holden of Absecon, N.J., Pauline Valent of Philadelphia and Chuck (Peggy), Roberta Lingafelt, Daniel (Elaine) and Nancy Gensamer, all of Altoona; 19 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and son-in-law, Tracy Mallory.
She was preceded in death by a daughter, Susan Mallory; three sisters: Mary Grace Adams-Ackerman, Helena Mete and Mae Johnson; and three brothers: Herman, Fidelis and Edgar Wharton.
Rita was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, where she was a member of the Christian Mothers, Legion of Mary Auxiliary and a volunteer for many years.
She enjoyed spending time with her family, quilting, sewing, cross-stitching and all kinds of puzzles.
Rita leaves behind a legacy as a very caring person with a great sense of humor. She will be greatly missed by her family, friends and all who knew her.
Friends will be received from 5 to 8 p.m. today at The Stevens Mortuary Inc., 1421 Eighth Ave., where a vigil for the deceased will be held. A funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, April 30, 2012, at Sacred Heart Church.
Committal will be at Logan Valley Cemetery, Bellwood.
