Rita Orlandi Davis Walker passed away peacefully on November 23, 2019 with family by her side, following a heroic battle with a respiratory illness. Her daughters kept vigil throughout her time in the hospital.
Rita was born on September 3, 1941 in Mutual, Utah to Victor J. Orlandi Jr. and Freida N. Woody. Rita was the second oldest of four siblings. She was a wonderful sister, spouse, mother, and grandmother. She was affectionately known as Nonna to her 9 grandchildren and Nonnie-O to her 10 great grandchildren.
Rita is survived by her husband Kenneth S. Walker, her daughters Ronda Patera (Bill), Cari Sproles (Norman), Paula Davis, Cidney Hammer (Shane), her siblings Vicki Keele (Lloyd), Cathy Cooper (Ed), Rick Orlandi (Kathy), many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her 22 month old daughter Kimberly Jean Davis in 1966, her children’s father Ronald Davis and her parents.
Rita had a strong conviction to be the best example she could be to her family regardless of what obstacles arose. She was a woman of faith, a talented artist, creative writer, seamstress and jewelry designer. She worked for the University of Phoenix for over 20 years. While working there she was also a student and graduated at the top of her class with a 4.0 and a Bachelor’s degree at the age of 57. It was a very proud moment for her and her family.
Rita will forever be in our hearts and be an inspiration of courage, strength, dignity and undying love of family.
The family greatly appreciates the entire ICU staff for their kindness, compassion and care given to the entire family especially to Rita.
A viewing will be held on Thursday December 5, 2019 at 11:00, with a service to follow. The services will be held at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary located at: 3401 S Highland Drive, Salt Lake City, UT.
Interment will be on Saturday December 7, 2019 in Price, Utah, with a viewing at 11:30-12:30 at the LDS church located at 545 E. 400 N. Price, Utah.