Rita Marie Saxton

It is with heavy hearts and grateful spirit for every moment we had with her that we share the news of the February 18, 2022 passing of Rita Marie (Noel) Saxton.

Born April 8, 1958, the daughter of Harvey J. Noel and Colleen M. (McGuire) Noel, she married Mark Saxton on August 8, 2009.

Rita's interests were many, and ranged from finding solitude while sitting beneath the darkened skies on a clear night and looking up to the stars through her telescope; to sitting quietly by the small pond on her and Mark's backyard property while listening to the chirping insects and whistling birds, and of course, watching the turtles saunter here and there; to reading books, especially her favorite author, Stephen King; to caring for a colorful clowder of cats and the family dog, Riley; to watching the wildlife that circled their cabin on a daily basis, including deer (very recently three does, each brought twin fawns, stopped by for a visit); to marveling at the many types of birds that gathered outside their picture window, including four pair of cardinals, gold finches, purple finches, chickadees, orioles and more, and of course the turkeys that strutted by; to watching NASCAR races every weekend (she was particularly fond of Dale Earnhardt, Sr.). She was especially appreciative and always looked forward to those days and evenings when Mark would cook her a meal on the grill.

Rita’s grandson Mason was the joy of her life.

Rita was preceded in death by one brother, Bob Noel, and by her parents.

Surviving are husband, Mark Saxton; sisters Nancy and Larry Dew, Kate Young and Sherry Lucius, Terri and Frank Schaller, Merry and Angel Toro; brothers Chuck and Lynn Noel, and Andy and Darlene Noel; daughters Teresa and DJ Slater and Shannon Kaufman and Zackary Parrott, and one grandson Mason Parrot; and many cousins and friends.

The family would like to offer its deep-hearted appreciation to Cardinal Hospice of West Branch and nurse Carol, who the family said was a “God-send” for being by Rita's side during her recent illness, and to Steuernol and McLaren Funeral Homes, Inc., of West Branch, for their assistance.

Per Rita's wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no public service.

A celebration of life is being planned for early May.