Rita Jean Bear, age 76, passed away on Sunday, September 6, 2010 at the Life Care Center of Mount Vernon.

She was born March 4, 1934 in Lake County, South Dakota to Clarence and Ina (Fountain) Peterson.

Rita moved to Western Washington at the age of 3, settling in Snohomish where she grew up and graduated from Snohomish High School in 1952.  For many years she has resided in Mount Vernon and for the past 7 years she has resided in Sedro-Woolley.

Rita taught painting lessons and enjoyed working with crafts.  She also enjoyed sewing, quilting, knitting, gardening and cooking.

She was a member of North Cascade Christian Fellowship and was a strong Christian and loved the Lord.

She is survived by her two sons, David Bear and his wife Susan of Stanwood and Dean Bear of Mount Vernon, and her daughter, Terry Kipling and her husband Roland of Rockaway Beach, OR.  Nine  grandchildren,  Chris, Mike, Nick, Hannah, Josie, Nathan, Nolan, Trevor and Kara.   A sister, Shirley Curtis of Snohomish, a brother, Clayton “Pete” Peterson of Lakewood, WA and numerous nieces and nephews.

Rita was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, Marge and Joyce and a granddaughter, Michelle.

A Memorial Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, September 11, 2010 at 4:00 PM at the North Cascade Christian Fellowship on Hwy 20 in Sedro-Woolley with Pastor Phil Brooks officiating will a reception to follow the services at the church.

Memorials are suggested to the North Cascade Christian Fellowship or the Cancer Care Center at United General Hospital.

Arrangements and cremation are under the care of Lemley Chapel, Sedro-Woolley.