Rita Ann Austin, age 66, of Maple Lake, died unexpectedly and peacefully, at her home at Maple Manor in Maple Lake on Saturday, August 23, 2025.

A private funeral liturgy will be held at Dingmann Funeral Care Chapel in Maple Lake with Fr. Kevin Magner officiating. Burial will take place at Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery near Little Falls.

Rita Ann Kotilinek, beloved sister and cherished friend, was born on April 10, 1959, in St. Cloud, Minnesota to Carl and Clara (Barthel) Kotilinek. Rita grew up in Maple Lake, graduating with the Class of 1977 from Maple Lake High School. She lived in various communities across the state, including Silver Creek, Monticello, Little Falls, Little Fork, Benson, Roseau, and Brainerd, before returning to her hometown of Maple Lake. On January 27, 2006, Rita was united in marriage to Gerald Austin in South Dakota. Rita was a member of the Church of St. Timothy in Maple Lake.

A hardworking individual, Rita worked many jobs throughout her career, including as a cashier in different grocery stores as well as in production, assembly, and embroidery, exhibiting her versatility and strong work ethic.

Rita was known for her creative spirit and knack for crafting. She loved knitting, crocheting, sewing, and quilting, and took great joy in sharing these passions with others. A true lover of conversation, she enjoyed visiting with people, making everyone she encountered feel valued and appreciated.Rita is survived by her brother and sisters, Tom (Wendy) Kotilinek of Maple Lake, Amy Loch of Maple Lake, Mary (Joe) Ackerman of Silver Creek, and Lisa (Dennis) Georges of Buffalo; many nieces and nephews, other relatives, and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald Austin; parents, Carl and Clara Kotilinek; brother-in-law, Mark Loch; and niece, Caroline Loch.

The casket bearers will be Jacob Ackerman, Shane Fertig, Matthew Loch, Chase, Derek, Dylan and Tom Kotilinek. Arrangements are entrusted with Dingmann Funeral Care Burial and Cremation Services of Maple Lake.

Obituary and Guestbook online at www.dingmannfuneral.com