Rita Bergeson

Rita Bergeson, age 63, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2026.

Rita was born on September 11, 1962, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, to Thomas Bergeson and Margaret Giombetti. She spent her early years in Kenosha before moving to the Green Bay area in her early twenties with her children. She later settled in Appleton, where she spent many years and formed lasting friendships.

Rita was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Tasha Schaefer and her husband, Daniel; her son, Marcus Bergeson and his wife, Melissa; her father, Thomas Bergeson; her stepmother, Linda Bergeson; her sister, Kimberly Stone; her three stepbrothers and one stepsister; her grandson, Antoine, and his fiancée, Jasmine, her granddaughter Makenzie and her fiancé Liam, her grandson Tony; her great-grandson, Kaizen; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and extended family members.

Rita was preceded in death by her mother, Margaret Giombetti, in 2017.

One of Rita's greatest joys was spending time at the Mary Beth Nienhaus Activity Center, formerly known as the Thompson Center on Lourdes. There she enjoyed playing cribbage and bingo, participating in activities, and spending time with friends. Cribbage was a special passion of hers, and the friendships she developed through the center became an important part of her life. She especially enjoyed seeing Elvis John perform, which was always a highlight for her.

Rita enjoyed the occasional outing with friends that almost always included a stop for a coffee. She appreciated life's simple pleasures and treasured the time she spent with those she cared about. Rita had a warm smile that brightened a room and enjoyed sharing conversation, laughter, and special moments with her family and friends.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the caring staff of Lotus Gardens and Moments Hospice for the compassion, comfort, and support they provided Rita. A special thank you is also extended to the staff, volunteers, and friends of the Mary Beth Nienhaus Activity Center, whose friendship and kindness brought so much joy to her life.

Rita will be remembered for her love of family, her friendly spirit, her enjoyment of cribbage and bingo, and the meaningful friendships she formed throughout her life. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

A Celebration of Life will be planned by Rita's family and announced at a later date.

Mealy-Stencel Funeral Home is proudly serving the Bergeson family.

• Mealy-Stencel Funeral Home
• 225 W. Main Street Waterford, WI 53185
• 262-534-2233
• www.stencelfh.com