The family of Rita Stene is saddened to announce her passing on April 28th, 2026 at the age of 74.

Rita was born on February 21, 1952, to Otto and Irma Sommerfeld, and was raised on a farm near Marcelin, Saskatchewan. She later moved with her family to a farm east of Shellbrook, where she completed her schooling. After a year at the University of Saskatchewan, Rita began her career with SaskTel, where she worked as an operator and steadily advanced to a service representative. She dedicated 30 years to her career before retiring in 2001 at the age of 49.

In 1970, Rita met Ron, and it was love at first sight. They were married in 1971 and built a life grounded in love, laughter, and partnership that spanned 54 years. Together they raised two children, Jennifer and Jonathon, and created a home filled with humour and connection.

Rita was an outgoing and gregarious person who truly loved people. Whether meeting someone new or reconnecting with old friends, she found joy in every interaction. She also loved to travel and made the most of every opportunity to explore and connect.

One of Rita’s greatest passions was genealogy. She devoted countless hours to tracing her family history, successfully following the Stene lineage back to the 16th century in Norway. Her efforts helped reconnect extended family across distances.

Rita embraced retirement with enthusiasm, enjoying a vibrant social life, traveling, and spending meaningful time with her children and grandchildren. Her early retirement gave her the gift of time—time she used well and shared generously with those she loved.

She will be lovingly remembered by her husband, Ron; her children, Jennifer (Kevin) and Jon (Lindsay); her grandchildren, Lily and William; her sister, Doreen (Stan) Schmidt; her sisters-in-law Gail Anderson, Yvonne Helgason, Marilyn Herzog; brother in law Dale (Verna) Stene; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Rita was pre-deceased by her parents, Otto and Irma Sommerfeld; her father and mother in law, George and Lillian Stene; brothers and sisters in law Lyle Herzog, Bill Anderson, Betty and Bruce Horan, Vivian and Percy Wong, and Gordon Helgason.

At Rita’s request, there will be no service. A private celebration of Rita’s life will be held at a future time. In lieu of other tributes, donations in memory of Rita may be made to The Cancer Foundation of Saskatchewan.

Rita will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for her warmth, her laughter, and the strong connections she built with family and friends throughout her life. We miss and love you Mom.

Martens Warman is honoured to be entrusted with Mrs. Stene's care and arrangements.