Rita Kaye Dunfee , 65, of rural Columbia City, passed away at 4:35 p.m. on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Parkview Regional Medical Center, Fort Wayne.

Born on February 11, 1961, at Wells County Hospital in Bluffton, Indiana, she was a daughter of the late Marshall G. and Lois Ann (Hawn) Dunfee.  Growing up in Washington Twp., Whitley County, she completed Washington Center School and graduated from Columbia City Joint High School in 1979.  She then completed Huntington Beauty College.

Never married, Rita worked for more than 30 years in restaurant management. She managed the Banditos at Georgetown Plaza for over 10 years and Salvatori's in New Haven for more than 17 years. She built a strong, respectful team and earned mutual admiration. Rita took pride in her staff and their accomplishments.

A dedicated member of the Order of the Eastern Star for 46 years, she became a deputy for the organization, traveling throughout the state.  She also was a member of the Order of Amaranth.  After retiring from restaurant management, she became the Treasurer for District 10 Little League encompassing Northeast Indiana.

At home, she enjoyed flower gardening and mowing the lawn.  She is remembered for her fudge and delicious cookies.  A long-term member of the Laud Christian Church, she more recently attended the Wolf Lake United Methodist Church.

Surviving are her sister, Romona Dunfee of Columbia City, and a brother, Ryan Dunfee of Camby; a nephew, Alex Dunfee, and a niece, Breanna Dunfee.

An Eastern Star and Order of Amaranth memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. at the Columbia City Masonic Blue Lodge 189, 501 US-30 BUS, Columbia City, IN 46725 on Saturday, August 1st.  Visitation is from 1 p.m. until the service at the Masonic Lodge.  Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.

Memorials in Rita's honor are to the District 10 Little League or Shriners Hospitals for Children.

Condolences may be sent to www.smithandsonsfuneralhome.com