Rita Ann Eskierka

Rita Ann Eskierka

December 16, 1963 – December 24, 2024

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Rita Ann Eskierka, who left this world unexpectedly on December 24, 2024, in Scottsdale, Arizona, at the age of 61, due to surgical complications.

Rita was born on December 16, 1963, in Bad Hersfeld, Germany. She later moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where she spent her childhood alongside her three brothers. Eventually, she made Saint Paul, Minnesota, her home, dedicating herself to raising her two beloved daughters.

Rita’s humor, warmth, and generosity left an indelible mark on everyone she met. Her unwavering love for her family and her deep care for others touched countless lives. Whether through her quick wit, heartfelt conversations, or acts of kindness, she made those around her feel truly seen and loved.

Rita was the proud and devoted mother of her daughters, Rhea Nelson (Colin) and Ashley Jensen (Craig), and the adoring grandmother of her three grandchildren: Bodhi Nelson (5), Della Jensen (3), and Gunnar Jensen (6 months). Her family was her greatest source of pride and joy, and she found immense happiness in celebrating their lives and accomplishments.

She is also survived by her brothers Glen Eskierka (Cathy) and Ronnie Eskierka (Betsy), her sister-in-law Sue Eskierka, and her cherished nieces and nephews: Ryan, Adam, Brad, Brittany, Haley, and Emily. Stacy Archibald and her daughter Jennifer Olson (Bryan) Rita was preceded in death by her parents, Mike and Hedwig Eskierka, and her brother Malcolm Eskierka.

A celebration of Rita’s life will be held on April 26, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Bradshaw Funeral and Cremation Services 3131 Minnehaha Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55406 In addition, anyone who would like to continue celebrating Rita is warmly invited to join Rhea and Ashley’s the 5-8 club at 5:30 pm they will be enjoying Rita’s favorite, a juicy Lucy. 

In honor of Rita’s legacy of generosity, the family encourages acts of kindness performed in her name as a tribute to the life she lived so fully and selflessly.

Rita Ann Eskierka will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. May her memory bring comfort and strength to those who mourn her passing, and may her spirit live on in the kindness we extend to others.