Rita Keller, a long-time resident of Southern California, died Wednesday the 23nd of May at her home in Laguna Woods, CA.

Born in 1929 in Brookline, Massachusetts, Rita graduated from Framingham Teachers College. She then went on to work for the U.S. Army teaching in Giessen, Germany. There she met her husband, Dr. Rick Keller.

Rita and Rick then moved back to the United States in 1957, where she began to teach in the South Whittier School District. She taught for 25 years, predominately at the Lake Marie School, before retiring.

Rita's love for teaching went beyond the classroom. She was a devote Catholic and an active member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church. Rita loved to socialize and spend time with her close family and friends. Her passion lied in helping others and was an inspiration for all who knew her.

Rita is survived by her husband, Dr. Rick Keller, her children, Rick Jr., Emily and Peter, as well as her three grandchildren, Elena, Zane, and Carena.

Please join us in remembering Rita, known as, "The Hat Lady" at St. Nicholas Catholic Church . Through this site, we invite you to share your thoughts and fond memories with our family.