Rita M. Tanner

Rita M. Tanner, age 94, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 6, 2018 in Ft. Worth. Born September 12, 1923 to Robert and Mary Fahrenkrug in Oshkosh, Wisconsin she was the youngest of five children. Rita was a very giving, strong, and outgoing person who always had a good story to tell and her children always came first. She had a love for all animals. Rita loved to garden, bowl, and play bridge with friends and was always ready to take a trip to the casino.

When she and her husband Clifford Kalista and their five children relocated to Texas in the 60’s she became a real estate agent for Helen Perkins and later received her broker’s license. Later on she worked for the City of Ft. Worth managing housing grants for lower income families. In her spare time she wrote a column called “Ask Rita” for the Azle News. After retiring for the City she worked for her daughter’s business “Electric 3 Wheelers” where she could always relate to the elderly customers and make them feel at ease.

Survived by her son Jeff Kalista and wife Kay, daughters Grace Ryan and Jenny Bargas. Grandchildren Matt Welborn, Chris Bargas, Connor Kalista, Claire Alt, Rachael Bargas, Sam and Austin Kalista. Eight great grandchildren and one great great granddaughter.

Preceeded in death by her parents, her two brothers Bob and Al Fahrenkrug, two sisters Grace Steiner and Esther Fahrenkrug, Cliff Kalista, Art Tanner, daughter Mary Bob Welborn, son Clifford Kalista Jr. and grandson Michael Ryan. If you wish to send floral condolences in honor of Rita Tanner, you may call Dr. Delphinium Designs and Events, 214-525-1284.