Rita Ann Whittaker, 68, of Zap, ND went to be with the Lord on Thursday, March 5, 2026. Her loving husband, Mark, was constantly at her side during her struggle with cancer.

Rita passed away at Sanford Health in Bismarck, ND.
Rita was born October 22, 1957 to Leonard and Doris Vondal. She was born in the vehicle while her mother was transported to the hospital in Cavalier, ND from Walhalla, ND.

Mark and Rita were united in marriage on September 18, 1987 and enjoyed many years together. One of her greatest joys in life was when her sons and grandchildren would visit. She enjoyed painting and making dream catchers. She definitely was an expert donut maker and very artistic.

Traveling in the Harley's sidecar with her dog, Banjo, and Mark as her chauffeur was one of her favorite ways to see the countryside. They visited many states and made many friends along the way. Rita always wanted to visit Bar Harbor, Maine and a few years back this became a reality. They enjoyed the Harley ride and dining on fresh lobsters by the ocean. She loved ice fishing and consistently out fishing everyone.

Rita worked for ten years in the medical field where her compassion and empathy for the sick and elderly shined. She also worked at the “Mom and Pop Shop” in Zap, ND and made friends with all the customers.

She is survived by her sons, Chris (Kindra) Vondal, Mike (Gretel) Hermanson; grandchildren, Titus, Amelia, Hailey and Logan; sisters, Bonnie, Evelyn; brother, Lenny; and her loving companion, Banjo.

Rita is preceded in death by her parents; four sisters, Cheryl, Brenda, Linda and Marilyn.

We will all miss our Rita (Opps). We will play Yahtzee again down the road.