Rita Ross Byer, aka "Grandma Beka," loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, has peacefully moved on to join her family and rest in heaven. Rita was born in 1927 in Los Angeles, CA, and was a graduate of St. John's School of Nursing in Springfield, Il. Rita's generous and caring spirit made her fit to help those in need, and she enjoyed a long career as a nurse and volunteer in many capacities. She was a member of the New Horizons community, and enjoyed being active, playing cards, and socializing with her dear friends. She was devoted in her Catholic faith, and was a dedicated member of Saint Lawrence Martyr Parish in Redondo Beach for many years. Rita was a loyal friend, genuine nurturer, and she became our angel in February of 2012 in Redondo Beach, CA. She was a treasure to many, and will be remembered for her warmth and her kind soul. Rita is preceded in death by her parents, Clare and Warren Ross; and her brother, Eugene and Warren Ross. Rita is survived by her daughter, Jaimie Gierlich Mock (Craig); her sons, James Ross Gierlich and Kurt Eugene Gierlich (Laurissa); her granddaughers, Gretchen Mock Momberg (Andy), Natalie Mock (Jesse Nichols), and Heidi Mock; her great-grandchildren Olivia Momberg, Luke Momberg and Avalon Nichols; her dearest friend and sister-in-law, Marge Dorman (Jack); and many beloved family members and friends. Rita's family is grateful for the support of her loved ones and community, and ask that in lieu of flowers, any donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association http://www.alz.org/. Services will be held at Holy Cross Cemetery at 10am on Saturday, March 3. Please sign the guestbook at www.dailybreeze.com/obits.
Published in Daily Breeze from February 26 to March 2, 2012