Rita Burton

Rita Burton, 87, of Normal, IL, passed away at 3:45 a.m., Friday, August 18, 2023 at the Arc at El Paso.

She was born July 19, 1936 in Milwaukee, WI to Alphonse and Celia (Wagner) Wallus.  She married Ray Burk on August 17, 1956 in Honolulu, HI.  He died May 24, 1981.  She later married John “Duane” Burton on January 7, 1983.  He died September 5, 2020.

Surviving is her daughter Verna (Randy) Stroud of El Paso, IL; two brothers John (Chris) Wallus and Paul (Mary) Wallus both of Milwaukee, WI; one sister Barbara Dassow of Wautoma, WI; one grandson Jason (Kelly) Follick of Minier, IL and his kids Mark (Eboni), Hayden, Mackenzie, Damien, Luci and Brisin, and great-great-grandchildren, Addison and Piper; one step-grandson Brad (Heidi) Stroud of El Paso and their children Mark, Daniel and Joshua.  Also surviving, her faithful companion Tiger Lily.

Rita was an Air Force veteran having served during the Korean Conflict.  She worked at area Hospitals, nursing homes, and doctor offices as an RN for 40 years before retiring.

Cremation will be accorded.  Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date.  Ruestman-Harris Funeral Home in El Paso is assisting the family with arrangements.

Memorials may be made to the family or the El Paso Rescue Squad.

Online tributes and condolences may be made at www.ruestmanharrisfuneralhome.com.