Rita L. Alsip

Rita L. Nelson Alsip, 87 of Shorewood passed away Sunday, March 16th, at St. Joseph Medical Center, Joliet IL. Born March 19, 1937, in Somonauk, IL of Axel Burton and Emma Julia (Heminover) Nelson, she grew up part of a farming family.

After graduating from Somonauk High School in 1955, she joined the Air Force as a clerk typist. Returning to civilian life, she lived in Aurora and went to work as bookkeeper for AlSteel.

She married Wallace A. Alsip, November 19, 1968, Somonauk, IL. Living in Aurora, this devoted wife and loving mother raised twins and still managed to support her husband as secretary and bookkeeper when he started his business. Rita participated in Cub Scouts for her son and a Girl Scout leader for her daughter who is still an active volunteer today as a GSNI Historian.

She was a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose because of the strong family values.

Enjoying bridge, she was part of the Holy Angels Bridge Club and others. Rita was an avid reader and loved politics, sharing her knowledge with the hope others would share her passion for truth and justice.

She retired with her husband to Panama City, Fl, where they spent close to 25 years. There she continued her love for bridge, traveling, reading, and politics. Mom even had a wonderful neighbor who shared her love of chocolate. Oh, the laughter and chocolate they shared.

After Wallace’s passing it took Hurricane Michael to decide her move back to Illinois where she lived with her daughter in Shorewood. Rita enjoyed their time together. She particularly appreciated her son-in-law spoiling her with chocolate. He ensured she had wonderful boxes of chocolate each holiday; well, every day. After moving to Illinois, Rita was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Luckily, the disease did not take away her infectious laugh and beautiful smile radiating pure joy.

Survived by her daughter, Chris (Ron) Kostelc of Shorewood, IL, former daughter-in-law Danielle Andrews (Randy) Colorado; three grandchildren Luke (Betty) Alsip; Joy Bican (John); Melody Andrews; one great grandchild Agarth; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, Marie (Johnson), Pat (Gates) and three brothers, Rick, David, Chuck Nelson, husband, son Randy.

The family will have a memorial service later at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL.

In lieu of flowers, please support your favorite Military Charity, Girl Scouts, or Boy Scouts.