Rita Florence Lastein

She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years Edward H. Lastein, Sr. who was deceased exactly one week to the day. She was an amazing woman, loving wife, an artist, teacher, doll maker and collector, day care worker for children, dedicated grandmother, friend to many and a wonderful mother. She is survived by son, Edward Lastein, Jr. and daughter-in-law Sandra their three children Teak, Kristen, and Kelton; daughter Judy Menadier and son-in-law Brian their two sons William and Bradley; daughter Diane Welfel and her two children Steven and Lindsey (Welfel) Farrington and husband Casey Farrington and their son Caleb (great grandchild) and two great grandchildren expected this year. Rita was born on September 1, 1937 and grew up in New Jersey. She received a Bachelor degree and went on to earn a Masters Degree in Social Work from Florida State University. She retired in 2006 while working for Haven Hospice of North Central Florida where she was a social worker.

Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, February 29, 2012 beginning with a visitation from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm at Forest Lawn Funeral Home; a Chapel service from 2:00 until approximately 2:30 pm and move to the cemetery for a committal service.

Arrangements under the direction of Forest Lawn Funeral Home, Ocala, FL.