Rita Ellis

Rita Lassen Ellis, age 89, of Osage Beach, MO passed away at 11:10 pm Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Arrowhead Senior Living.

Graveside services will be held 12:30 pm, April 13, 2026 at Grand View Funeral Home. Rev Jason Young will officiate.

A viewing will be held at 12:00 pm Monday April 13, 2026 at the Grand View Funeral Home.

Rita was born on January 4, 1937, in Stuttgart, Germany, to Hugo and Emma Lassen (Kalberer).

Rita married Donald Boyd Ellis on November 26, 1966 in Chicago IL. They spent their honeymoon in Lake of the Ozarks and would eventually move there in 1999. He precedes her in death.

Rita is survived by her step daughter Vicki Witmer (Gary) of Fort Collins, CO, and two step grandchildren, and a Daughter-in-law, Leela Devi Panikar of Hong Kong.

Rita lived a most amazing life. As a small child during World War II she was evacuated to Nubdorf, Germany because Stuttgart was one of the most effected cities. After finishing her secondary education she moved to Nottingham, England for a time and worked as domestic help for a university professor’s family.

Rita moved, by herself, when she was only 23, to the United States. Filled with independent fire and courage she would make a very successful life. By the 1970’s she was working her way up the corporate ladder and making a name for herself. Working in Chicago for March & McClennan insurance company, then moving on to Stanwood Industries, a paper conversion and distribution company, she would become executive assistant to the CEO.

In 1981 because of her administrative experience and talent Rita was hired to work for Morton Salt. It didn’t take long and Rita would soon become Morton Salt Vice President. The first woman to achieve that distinction.

Rita was an amazing person and has left an indelible impact on all who knew her. Her life is a tribute to hard work and determination and all that a person can achieve no matter where you come from or what you have experienced. She will be missed deeply.

Memorial contributions may be made to Dementia Research in Rita's name.

Online condolences may be made on Rita’s memorial page at www.grandviewfuneral.com