Rita Frances Kordel, 73, of Suttons Bay, passed away Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2010, in the presence of her family at Tendercare of Leelanau. Rita was born April 15, 1937, in Detroit, the daughter of James and Charlotte (Reid) Caraher. In January 1958, in Detroit, she married Chester Kordel, who survives.Rita was Irish to her soul. She loved her trips to Ireland, and her family will cherish forever those fantastic memories. Everyone who knew Rita loved and enjoyed her terrific sense of humor. She was the consummate giver and volunteered for countless organizations throughout her life. She spent the last 10 years as a volunteer with the Father Fred Foundation. Rita is with our Lord in a better place.In addition to her husband of 52 years, Rita is survived by her children, Mary Krueger, Moira Fracassa and James Kordel; siblings, James Caraher, Catherine Caraher; and her grandchildren Max Krueger and Marcus Angelo.
She was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Joan; and siblings, Mary Jo Marion, Daniel and Thomas Caraher.Holy Mass in Rita's memory will be at Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha, Peshawbestown, on Friday, Nov. 12, at 8:30 a.m. A memorial service celebrating Rita's life will be at St. Mary's of Redford Church in Detroit on Saturday, Nov. 20, at 11 a.m.  Memorials may be directed to the Father Fred Foundation, PO Box 2260, Traverse City, MI 49685.