Rita Mae Russow, 82, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully on November 25, 2025. Private family services will be held. Burial will take place in Linwood Cemetery.

Rita was born on January 17, 1943 in Dubuque Iowa, the daughter of Leonard and Helen (Deppe) Hafeman.

She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School. She was united in marriage to Tom Marshall, and together they had three children: James, Donna, and Diane. They were later divorced. Rita  married Harry Russow, and he preceded her in 1992.

Rita was a homemaker and took great pride in raising her children. She also worked various part-time jobs over the years. She was the president of her condo association for several years and ran a tight ship.

Rita enjoyed sewing, decorating her home, and cooking.

She is survived by her children, James Marshall, Donna Jackson, and Diane Bardon; grandchildren, Evan and Ben Jackson, and Chloe and Camille Bardon; sister Joanne Wulfekuhle, and sister-in-law Judy Hafeman.

She was preceded in death by her spouses, her parents, a brother Roger Hafeman, and brother-in-law Wilfred Wulfekuhle.

Donations in Rita’s name may be directed to St. Croix Hospice.

Rita and her family would like to extend gratitude to St. Croix Hospice, especially Keshia, Amanda, Jackie, and Leticia, and also to Kara and Kristy for the care they provided to Rita. A special appreciation to Verona for her help and support. Thank you will never be enough.