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Rita Keeney Weiler, a long-time resident of Lakewood, died July 6 at the home of her daughter in Arvada, Co.
Rita lived in Lakewood for more than 55 years and was actively involved in the Village and the community - with the Lakewood Women's Club, the Lakewood United Methodist Church, the Chautauqua County Historical Society, Bridge Club, and the Lakewood YMCA (formerly known as the Lakewood Tennis Center).
Rita was born in Hershey, July 25th 1931 to Eva and Herman Keeney of Palmyra, PA. Her father worked for the Hershey Chocolate Company. She was proud of that and made sure there were always Hershey chocolate in her home available to family and guests
Rita was always eager to learn and to be involved. She was Salutatorian at Palmyra High School in the graduating class of 1948 where she was also president of the Tri-Hi-Y and a member of the German Cub, Glee Club, Mixed Chorus, the County Chorus, and editor of the school paper. She also participated in intramurals and the Senior play. Always being well-liked and enjoyable to be around, she was awarded and humbly received seven senior class superlatives out of the 10 awarded.
She attended Penn State University and was a member of Delta Gamma sorority. She met her late husband Henry R. Weiler while at Penn State. They were married for over 66 years until Henry's death in 2018.
Rita was active year-round. She enjoyed sailing, kayaking, swimming and tennis in the summer months and in winter, figure skating and skiing. When she wasn't being active outdoors, she was active with various organizations and activities, like bridge, choir, and church.
And when she was not actively doing, she was actively helping, cheering on, and supporting others.
One of her most notable and memorable creations was her Christmas Card. It was an annual production that started with an idea in September, design and cutouts in October, production in November, and distribution in December. She managed an evolving list of recipients each of whom cherished and welcomed her Christmas art each year- a permanent keepsake of her giving spirit.
Beyond her many accolades and accomplishments, she was the truest form of what it means to "be good," her guiding principle was to bring joy to others. She unconditionally gave herself elevating life's experiences for all those she touched - leaving each with a common and loving – yet personalized – sentiment about her being.
Survivors include her sister Frances Jaques of Edgewater, MD; daughter, Robin Millett of Arvada, CO; son, Scott Weiler of Honeoye Falls, NY; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
She was predeceased by her daughter Greta Ann Weiler and her husband Henry R. Weiler.
A service will be held at Lakewood United Methodist Church on Saturday, August 12 at 3 pm, followed by a reception at the church. Memorial donations may be given to Lakewood Public Library, Chautauqua County Historical Society.