Reta Mae Rearick, age 65, passed away Wednesday, December 23, 2015 in Des Moines surrounded by her family, together as Reta wanted. A gathering of friends and family will be 3:00-6:00 p.m. Friday, January 1, 2016 at Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care, 414 Lincoln Way, in Ames with a memorial service 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 2, 2016 at Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care.
She grew up in Lincoln, Iowa, raised by her father, Harold Gratopp and step-mother, Irene Gratopp. She graduated from Gladbrook High School and later continued on to get her nursing degree. After working over 20 years at Mary Greeley Medical Center, she retired in 1992.
Reta was an indomitable, fun-loving spirit even though she struggled with health problems throughout her life. As a child, her hearing problems went undiagnosed and was labeled "dumb." But when Reta finally got her hearing aids, nothing could stop her drive to better herself. Reta brought her love, kindness, and sense of humor to her nursing career. She was irreverent, but kind. She loved to laugh, but she was the sweetest person to console you in your darkest hour. Even as her health problems worsened through the years, she kept on giving hell, teasing her doctors and her relatives, telling stories, always laughing. She remained a happy and grateful person. Nothing made her happier than being with her family, especially the birth of her grandson this year. Beyond her love of family, she enjoyed camping, fishing, bird watching, beadwork, and her dogs.
Reta is survived by her husband, Edward, sons, Jason (Amaris Elliott-Engel) and John (Gaila), one grandson, Ian, one brother, Gary (Janet) Gratopp and one sister, Sandra (Luverne) Hawn. She is preceded in death by her father and step-mother.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to a charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be directed to www.grandonfuneralandcremationcare.com