Rita L. (Merdian) Ely

Rita L. Ely, 81 of Putnam, passed away on Saturday, June 8, 2019 at her residence.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 12, 2019 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Granville.  Fr. Patrick DeMeulemeester will officiate.  Burial will be in Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, Granville.

Visitation will be from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 11, 2019 at Dysart – Cofoid Funeral Chapel, Granville.

Rita was born on March 13, 1938 in Henry to Louis and Elizabeth (Noeder) Merdian.  She married Charles Ely on November 12, 1960.

She graduated from Henry High School.  Rita was a bus driver for Putnam County School District for 30 years.  She also worked for the Clover Club and the Pizza Place in Granville.

She was a member of the Altar and Rosary Society.  Rita enjoyed gardening and visiting with family, neighbors and friends.

Survivors include four sons, Steve (Laura) Ely of Dixon, Kevin (Debbie) Ely of Granville, Bill Ely of Putnam and David Ely of Putnam; one daughter, Charlene (Dave) Ryckaert of LaMoille; one brother, Jerry (Jane) Merdian of Henry; one sister, Pat (Wally) Schaidle of Metamora; 9 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Charles Ely on January 31, 1994 and two son’s Bob and Joe Ely.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be directed to the family.

Pallbearers will be Josh Merdian, Alex Ely, Abbi Ely, Diana Ely, Rachel Ely, Emily Jo Ely, Chris Dixon, Dave Ryckaert, Connie Ely and Katie Ely.

Online Condolences may be made to her family at www.dcfunerals.com

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