Rita M. Pleva

Rita Marjorie Pleva, lovingly known as “Blondie,” passed away peacefully at home at the age of 93, surrounded by the warmth and love of her family. Born on December 15, 1931, in Newark, New Jersey, to John and Faye (Richliano) Tozzi, Rita lived a life defined by generosity, laughter, and devotion to the people and causes she held dear.On June 20, 1953, she married her beloved husband, Edward P. Pleva. Together, they shared a beautiful life of love, laughter, dancing, and unwavering commitment—raising a family and building a home filled with heart. Rita worked for many years at Moreland Medical, where she was known for her compassion, dependability, and no-nonsense charm.Rita was a proud supporter of her community and causes that mattered deeply to her. She was actively involved with the National Police Association, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, her local Neighborhood Watch, and the Waukesha Elks Club – Elks Ladies. Her quiet strength and heartfelt service to others left a lasting mark.She had a talent for making every space feel like home. Whether she was cooking holiday feasts, crocheting beautiful blankets, dancing in the kitchen, or hunting for the perfect find while shopping, Rita’s joy was contagious. She loved gathering her family for formal meals—never letting a plate leave the table untouched without asking, “How was everything? You didn’t eat anything!” Her words, always delivered with a knowing smirk and a sparkle in her eye, became part of the fabric of family tradition.Her favorite reminders—“Make sure that door is shut”—were just another way she cared, quietly and constantly.Rita is survived by her loving children: Karen (Mark) Jirik, Edward (Mary Ann) Pleva, and John (Shirley) Pleva. She was the proud grandmother of Matthew (Karin) Pleva, Tony Pleva, Andrew Pleva, Stephanie (Tim) Bloedorn Justin Pleva, and Kimberly (Ryan) Berka, and the joyful great-grandmother of Brooklyn, Madelyn, Soleil, Sloane, Aiden, Isabella, and Cheri.She was preceded in death by her devoted husband Edward, her parents John and Faye, and her beloved sister Dorothy Perrone.

A visitation and celebration of Rita’s life will be held on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at:Cesarz, Charapata & Zinnecker Funeral Home237 N. Moreland Blvd, Waukesha, WI 53188Visitation: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMService: 11:00 AMFollowing the service, Rita will be laid to rest at:Arlington Park Cemetery4141 S 27th Street, Milwaukee, WI.

Rita Marjorie Pleva leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and strength. Her memory lives on in every story told around the dinner table, every shared smile, and every quiet moment of reflection.