Rita Simpson Helle

(Nee McEnroe) Rita Simpson Helle of Milwaukee, WI passed away with perfectly applied lipstick on June 18, 2018. She was born September 27, 1928 in Oak Park, IL to John and Angela McEnroe.

She is survived by her sister Mary McEnroe; daughters Martha McDade (Hiram) and Sue Simpson Bark; stepchildren Sandy Kemp (Mel), Debby Helle, James Helle, Jr. (Suzanne); and a LARGE, loving extended family including 15 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild.

Rita is preceded in death by her first husband Thomas Simpson, second husband James Helle, son Steven Simpson, stepdaughters Susan Hylton and Donna Helle, son-in-law Bradley Bark, and siblings Rev. John “Jack,” Thomas, Patricia, and William.

Rita was a graduate of Mount Mary College and had a passion for teaching English. She retired from St. James School but continued working as a substitute teacher throughout the Milwaukee area until becoming a snowbird. There wasn’t a friend she couldn’t make, a game she wouldn’t play, or a sale she didn’t shop. She leaves behind a legacy of humor and generosity for all of us to live up to.

Her family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Michael Fetherston, “Dr. Mike,” for his unwavering attention and care for Rita’s well-being.

A visitation will be held on Monday, June 25, 2018 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Alexian Village, 9301 North 76th Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin immediately followed by a Mass of Christian Burial.

In lieu of flowers, her family requests that a donation be made to a charity of your choosing.