Rachel E. Little

RIO - Rachel E. Little, 93, of Wyocena, passed away peacefully Saturday, June 27, 2009, at Columbia Health Care Center in Wyocena, where she had resided for the past four years.

Rachel was born Jan. 13, 1916, in the town of Wyocena, the daughter of Arthur and Eva Bush Purves. At age 13, Rachel's father passed away.

Her mother was then united in marriage to Ted Rendahl, whom she considered dad. She graduated from Pardeeville High School, class of 1933. Rachel continued her education at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. She received her teaching degree and taught at several one-room school houses in Columbia County. Rachel was united in marriage to Charles William Little on June 27, 1942. Three children blessed their marriage. He preceded her in death in 1989. Rachel and Charles enjoyed farming. Together they raised chickens, crops and cattle. They reaped the bountiful harvest. Rachel had beautiful flower gardens. Her hobbies included canning, gardening and flowers. Her joy in life was her family and providing for them. She was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church and its Altar Society.

She is survived by her son, Charles (friend Dawn) Little of Pardeeville; daughter, Linda (Randy) Yaroch of Rio; five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; brother, Alvin (Betty) Purves of Rio; half brother, Darvin Rendahl of Florida; other near relatives and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Thomas; two grandchildren, Michael and Daniel; and brother, Glen.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Doylestown. Father Bruce Hennington will preside. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation for Rachel will be from 9:30 a.m. until time of service at the church.

Special thanks to Columbia Health Care Center in Wyocena for its compassion and care given to Rachel. Also special thanks to Dr. Bruce Krause for his kindness over the years. Memorials may be made in Rachel's name.

Smith-Vangen Funeral Home in Rio is serving the family.