Rita C. Holthaus, 90, of Seneca, KS passed away Tuesday, October 6, 2015.

Rita was born December 28, 1924 on a farm near Seneca, KS, the daughter of William P. Altenhofen and Elizabeth Gudenkauf.  Rita graduated from Sts. Peter and Paul High School in 1942.  She worked at Harsh’s Drug Store, War Rationing Board and the Farmers Elevator.

Rita married Fritz Holthaus on April 23, 1946 at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Seneca, KS.  They were married for 66 years and raised seven children. She followed with great pride her 16 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

Rita co-owned and operated the Diamond Shop in Seneca for 18 years with her husband.  They also owned Seneca Skate Land and later converted Skate Land to the Seneca Motel.  They operated the Seneca Motel for 22 years. 

Rita loved being with her husband, Fritz and her family.  She enjoyed hosting holiday family gatherings in her home. She was also a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, St. Ann’s Altar Society, The VFW Auxiliary, and past Vice President of the Seneca Golf Club. 

Survivors include her children: Betty Lou Haug (Mike) Seneca; David Holthaus (Jean) Topeka; Max Holthaus (Amy) Salina; Jane Groff (Dave) Topeka; Jeff Holthaus (Julie) Douglass; and Bill Holthaus of Topeka; son-in-law, Steve Tevis of Normal, Illinois; and siblings, Anita Wichman (Fritz) Shawnee Mission and Joe Altenhofen (Betty) Seneca.

Preceding Rita in death include her husband, Fritz Holthaus; daughter, Bonnie Tevis; and daughter-in-law, Joan Holthaus; and siblings, Wilhelmena Masters, Cyril Altenhofen and Donald Altenhofen.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, October 10, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca.  The family will greet friends Friday, October 9, 2015 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary in Seneca.  Recitation of the Rosary will be Friday evening 7:00 p.m. at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church. www.popkessmortuaries.com