Rita M. Meyer

A Funeral Service for Rita will be held on Friday, March 20, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Farmer & Son Funeral Home in Geneva, Nebraska, with Kyle Kimbrough presiding. Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 19, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., with family present from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Farmer & Son Funeral Home in Geneva, Nebraska. Graveside Services will be conducted following the funeral service at the Bruning Public Cemetery in Bruning, Nebraska. Memorials are to be directed to the family to be designated at a later date. Rita's service will be live-streamed to our YouTube page. You can find our page by following this link: https://www.youtube.com/@FarmerSonFuneralHome Rita Margaret Meyer was born to Clyde Martin Anderson and Dollie Marie Smith Anderson on July 4, 1941, in Omaha, Nebraska. She was the 2nd of 4 children. She passed away Friday, March 13, 2026, with her daughters by her side, at Heritage Crossings, Geneva, Nebraska, at the age of 84. During her childhood, Rita moved frequently with her family due to her father's work in construction. She graduated from Savannah High School in Savannah, Missouri, in 1959. Following high school, Rita pursued further training by attending “beauty school”. Rita married Byron Salfrank, and together they welcomed the birth of their daughter, Li’sa, in April of 1962. Tragically, Rita's life took a difficult turn when Byron unexpectedly passed away in January 1964. Seeking support, Rita and young Lisa moved to Hebron to be closer to Rita’s parents and her younger siblings. It was in Hebron that Rita met Donavon Meyer of Bruning. The two married on July 23, 1965. Their union brought the joy of two more children, Terry and LeeAnn. Together, Don and Rita built a home on a farm southeast of Bruning, a mile from Don’s parents’ family farm. In 1987, their family faced heartbreak when they lost Terry in a tragic event. Despite this immense loss, Rita and her family drew strength from their faith, finding comfort in the belief that they would one day be reunited in Heaven. Rita worked various jobs throughout her life, but eventually settled into food service. Rita worked at Bruning Sundries, where she especially bonded with the youth who stopped by for fountain sodas, ice cream, and arcade games. She then launched her own catering business, preparing meals and serving hundreds of guests at events such as the annual Bruning Grain and Feed customer appreciation supper. Her dedication to food service extended to her employment in the dietary department at Heritage Nursing Home in Geneva, where she later advanced to the role of nutrition manager. Following the loss of Terry, Rita took some time away from work before returning to food service at Smitty’s Bakery in Hebron. She continued her commitment to caring for others in the dietary department at Blue Valley Lutheran Nursing and Care Home in Hebron. Rita’s remarkable culinary talents were at the heart of many cherished gatherings with friends and neighbors, whether it was for birthdays, anniversaries, or any occasion that called for a potluck. These events were made memorable by an array of dishes, such as Rocky Mountain oysters, refreshing slushies, homemade ice cream, and a variety of delicious cakes. Rita’s birthday, celebrated on the Fourth of July, was always a highlight of the year—a perfect occasion for festive celebrations and unforgettable moments with family and friends. Rita was a member of the United Methodist Church of Bruning. Throughout her time there, Rita served as both a Sunday school and Bible school teacher, sharing her faith and nurturing the spiritual growth of the youth in the congregation. In addition to her teaching roles, she also took on the responsibility of being an MYF (Methodist Youth Fellowship) leader, guiding and encouraging young people in their faith journeys. Rita continued her service to the church community until the selling of the family home in 2002. After retiring, Don and Rita embraced a new chapter in their lives filled with travel. They purchased a camper and became members of the Good Sams and Road Runner camping clubs, which allowed them to meet many new friends. Their shared love of adventure led them to explore various destinations and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow campers. During the winter months, Don and Rita made their home in Zapata, Texas, where they took pleasure in the warmer weather. In 2014, as Don’s health began to decline, they made the difficult decision to sell their Texas home and motorhome. The couple then settled into a new home in Geneva, where they continued to make the most of their time together. Rita cherished her relationships and was known for her unwavering kindness and generosity; she knew no strangers. She had a unique ability (the gift of gab) to make everyone feel welcome, whether it was family, friends, or newcomers to the community. She was considered a 2nd mom to many of her children’s friends, remaining in contact with many of them throughout their adult years. Her warmth and infectious laughter brightened every gathering, leaving lasting memories with all who knew her. When Rita was admitted to Heritage Crossings in January, her remarkable warmth and humor continued to shine, even as her health quickly declined. Despite her short stay, she made a meaningful impact on the lives of the staff she encountered. Many of them were drawn to her room, not just for routine care but to spend time with her, enjoying conversations and sharing moments of comfort. In her final days, staff and hospice members would often visit to offer a gentle kiss, a warm hug, or a reassuring word, reflecting the deep affection and respect she inspired in everyone around her. Her ability to connect with others and leave a positive impression endured until the very end, affirming the special place she held in the hearts of all who knew her. Rita was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Donavon, and their son, Terry, her parents, Clyde and Dollie Marie Anderson, as well as her parents-in-law, Earl and Delia Meyer, and first husband, Byron Salfrank. Rita is survived by her daughters, Lisa and Jon Chapman of Hebron, and LeeAnn and Doyle Eichelberger of Geneva. Grandchildren include Logan Chapman of Forest Hills, New York; Amanda and Brandon Norquest of Aurora, Nebraska; Lacy and Kyle Kimbrough; Lindsay Eichelberger; and Lance and Claudia Eichelberger, all of Geneva, Nebraska. Rita also leaves behind her great-grandchildren: Paxton Norquest, Lane Kimbrough, Larsyn Kimbrough, and baby “E” arriving very soon. Rita's siblings are her brother Clyde and Vicki Anderson of Zapata, Texas; sisters Reva Stevens of Sanger, Texas; and Kathy and John Grossman of Diamond, Illinois. Rita’s passing is also deeply felt by her devoted little companion, Buff, a beloved 5-pound teacup Yorkie. Additionally, she is remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and the many extra “kids” whom she welcomed as part of her family.

Tributes

Rita M. Meyer

July 4, 1941 - March 13, 2026