Rita A. Howard

(nee Crotty) Beloved Mother and Grandma Age 82 of North St. Paul Was called home on April 7, 2023 While surrounded by her loved ones. Born to Lillian and Harold Crotty in Osceola, WI, Rita was raised in St. Paul and graduated from Johnson High School. She went to Beauty School and met her loving husband of 43 years, Donald, when they both worked at Rayett, Inc. They raised 3 children in North St. Paul. She was a lifelong member of St. Peter's Catholic Church. Rita loved gardening, baking, home and holiday decorating, and spending time with her grandchildren. Preceded in death by her parents; husband, Donald Howard; son, Dwight, and 3 siblings, Don Crotty, Larry Crotty, and Pat Wanner. Survived by 2 daughters, Dawn (Joe) Torma, and Denise (Todd) Diethert; grandchildren, Megan and Ethan Howard, Mackenzie and Grace Torma, Alicia and Jacob Diethert; 3 siblings, Jim (Candice) Crotty, Betty Mike, and Gloria Crotty; daughter-in-law, Jen Sturm and many nieces, nephews, and friends. 11:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial Friday, April 21st at the Church of St. Peter, 2600 North Margaret Street, North St. Paul, MN. (Vistation 10:00 - 11:00 AM). Burial to follow in the Cottage Grove Cemetery, Cottage Grove, MN. A Special thank you to the Residents and Staff of St. Andrew's Village, Mahtomedi, MN. In lieu of Flowers, please make a donation to any food shelf of your choice.