Anita Lee Ridell

Anita Lee Riddell, 83, died August 1, 2016, at Mercy Hospital in Rogers, Ark. She was born in Patterson, Illinois on October 14, 1932, the only daughter of Lela Alice Fry (Walk) and John Fry. She attended school in Jacksonville, Illinois. She married Raymond Chandler Riddell on August 17, 1951 in Anoka, Minnesota and they lived almost all of their married life in Minnesota, making their home in Westbrook, Mankato, and Tyler. For the past 25 years she lived in Bella Vista, Arkansas. She was a very active member of New Wine Ministry Church and loved being involved in all of the work of her church. She maintained a close relationship with her Bible Study Group from Minnesota for over 30 years. While in Westbrook, Anita was active in many groups. Most especially the American Legion Auxiliary. She was instrumental in starting Candy Stripers as well as supporting all Legion initiatives. She and Ray were active in supporting their community and had a wide circle of friends who spent many happy times at their home. They also hosted so many of their children's friends there. Sledding parties, hot chocolate, untold numbers of sleep overs, cub scouts, fishing parties, and anything else that came up. She and Ray retired to Bella Vista, Arkansas in 1991. Many of her family moved there to be close to them. Anita was always there for her family. Whether it was moving to Minnesota for the winter to care for a daughter or taking care of any grandchild who needed a place to stay for a night or a year, Anita was always there. She and her son, Tyler, were constant companions and always shared a special bond. She loved visiting, good meals, shopping and laughing. That is the memory we all carry - Anita laughing. Anita is survived by children Randi (Lee) Kirchner, Angela (Nick) Cessario, Tyler Riddell, Cara (Dan) Riddell, Mark Riddell; grandchildren John Kirchner, Whitney Riddell, Jacob Riddell, Craig Riddell, Ranae Henson, Rachel Tolle; and 11 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by husband, Ray Riddell; granddaughters, Nicole Cessario and Shannon Kirchner. On-line condolences may be made at www.funeralmation.com.