Rheta Zellner

Rheta R Zellner,  born January 23, 1939 to Johanna & Peter C. Zellner  joined her siblings, Marion Konopa,  Joe,  Carl,  Leonard,  Peter, Kenneth, Myrtle Tackes, Bob, and Bernie in death. Rheta was born in Arpin, Wisconsin and spent the better share of her childhood in and around Wisconsin, Rapids.  Rheta education included St. James grade School Belvidere Il. for a short period and St. Edward’s in Rockford. After elementary school Rheta attended Sacred Heart Academy in Lisle, Illinois.  Rheta graduated 1958 and then began her journey in the Benedictine life along with her  collegiate studies.  She embarked upon her teaching career while being in the Novitiate. She taught in Texas for a time.  Health issues resulted in her leaving the convent. She then started her career in elementary education in the Rockford area. During these years Rheta played an essential role in caring for her mother, Johanna.   Rheta was an elementary teacher at St. Bridget’s Loves Park and St. Edward’s Rockford starting in the 1960’s.  Upon the completion of her teaching years she assumed the role of religious education director at St. Edward’s Catholic School.  From there Rheta  entered retirement. However, Rheta was not idle. She purchased her little home in south Rockford and started teaching ceramics to adult learners. She continued this into the new century. As gardening was in her DNA she cared for a garden and flowers.  Rheta’s faith was integral part of her life. In addition to her time at Sacred Heart Monastery, she later became an associate of the School Sisters of St. Francis.  Her dear friend Sister Mary Laudet was instrumental in her association with the Sisters from Wisconsin. Rheta and Sr. Mary traveled together in retirement and the two of them spoiled three small dogs for many years.  Rheta was a member of St. Edwards parish for many years. She was a very outstanding cook and her dear friend Father James Murphy enjoyed more than a few meals prepared for him.  For those of us left, Rheta was a thread that kept the large Zellner family updated on news of births, first communions, graduations, and weddings. For those of us fortunate to live nearby she was a constant influence in our families. She would often babysit and was a faithful participant in the events of our families. Rheta helped sustain some of the family traditions. She will be missed but rest assured she and her siblings along with her Mother and Father will be celebrating with dumplings and sauerkraut once again. Pass the sauerkraut, please. Special thanks to her long time caregiver Joann Hopper, also the nursing staff and care staff at Alden Debes Nursing Home.  Another special thank you to the numerous friends that stayed in touch with Rheta over the years.