Rita J. Ernstes

Local business leader, 82, of Indianapolis, passed away October 21, 2008. She was born in Indianapolis June 9, 1926 to John and Juliann Kress Mumaugh. Rita was married September 3, 1949 to Charles Ernstes, who preceded her in death. Charles and Rita co-founded Metro Elevator, Co. Inc., she served as president until 2005. In her younger years Rita was one of the Original Rosy the Riveters working as a Machinist during World War II for forty cents per hour. She was also employed with the Indianapolis Bar Association, General Hospital and Sherwood Club. Rita was an extremely active loving woman traveling throughout the world. Her stewardship for the Catholic Church included volunteering for the Knights of Columbus and countless other functions. She donated time at Little Flower in the church office and served tirelessly for Saint Vincent DePaul, Ladies Club officer, Altar Society, Adoration Chapel and as a Eucharistic Minister. She was a volunteer for Meals on Wheels, a member of Moose Lodge #17, VFW Women�s Auxiliary, past president of the Indianapolis AARP, and as a troop leader for Girl Scouts of America. Visitation will be Friday, October 24, 2008 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. with rosary at 3:30 p.m. at Shirley Brothers Washington Memorial Chapel, 9606 E. Washington St. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, October 25, at Little Flower Catholic Church, 4720 E. 13th St., 46201, at 11:00 a.m., with church visitation one hour prior to Mass. Rita is survived by daughters, Veronica and Becky Ernstes, Cecilia (Kelly) Boxell, Claricia (David) Watt; one son, Charles N. (Diane) Ernstes II. Grandchildren, Kevin Marrow, Valerie Decker, Sasha Boxell, Jessica (Morgan) Estes, Christopher and Benn Clegg, Josh and Christian Murdock, Sarah and Deborah Ernstes, Charles Ernstes III, David and James Watt; great-grandchildren, Braydon and Bryce Marrow, Isabella and Jacob McFarland. She was preceded in death by daughters Deborah Clegg, Rita Ernstes, and siblings John and Raymond Mumaugh, Mary Hammond and Elizabeth Mumaugh. Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to St. Vincent DePaul Society at 1201 E. Maryland St., www.svdpindy.org, they also accept donations of food, clothing and household items.

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Rita J. Ernstes

June 9, 1926 - October 21, 2008