Rita Jean (Weidenbacher) Takes, 73, of Dubuque, died Sunday, June 28, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City of complications awaiting a lung transplant.

Private family services were held. Burial was at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West.

Rita was born March 23, 1953, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Robert and Jean (Sutton) Weidenbacher. On May 25, 1974, she married Robert Takes in Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on June 15, 2019.

Rita worked for the Dubuque Community School District for 35 years prior to her retirement.

Rita enjoyed tending to her large yard, taking pride in mowing the grass and caring for her animals. She loved being outdoors, spending time at the pool, and could happily drink coffee all day long. Rita especially enjoyed traveling with her sister and grandchildren, creating many cherished memories along the way. Most of all, she treasured time spent with her family and friends and looked forward to family gatherings, where she was happiest surrounded by those she loved. She will be remembered for her spunky/spicey personality, never being afraid to tell you how it is, and her vast love of nature and all animals. She truly enjoyed life’s simple things.

Survivors include her three children, Rita (Michael) Marx of Asbury, Larry “Tiger” (Tiffanie) Takes of Dubuque, and Robert “Bob” (Jenny) Takes of Sherrill, IA; nine grandchildren, Kolton Schmitt, Karter Schmitt, Brianna Takes, Nora Takes, Aiden McCombs, Cody (Allison) Marx, Tristin Marx, Allyana (Brian) Spooner, and Reegen Marx; one great-grandchild, Leo McCombs; four siblings, Ann (Tom) Beau, Rob (Francine) Weidenbacher, Mark “Fuzz” (Dory) Weidenbacher, and Mary (Robert) Conner; and her two fur babies, Axel and Buddy.

Besides her parents and husband, Rita was preceded in death by her brother, Tim Weidenbacher; and several beloved pets.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt Thank You to the nurses and staff in the MICU Unit at the University of Iowa Hospital for all of their compassionate care and to all of the family and friends that have reached out with love and support.

Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Crematory is in care of the arrangements.

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Rita’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.