Obituaries

Rita M. Yetsko

8/7/1935 - 1/29/2026

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Obituary For Rita M. Yetsko

Rita M. Yetsko

August 7, 1935-January 29, 2026

Rita M. Yetsko, 90, of Altoona, passed away Thursday morning at her residence. She was born in Altoona, the daughter of the late Max and Mary (Horell) Besendorfer.

Rita married Edward B. “Bernie” Yetsko on May 12, 1956 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Altoona, he preceded her in death on September 17, 2025.

Surviving are her children: three daughters: Sue Franco (John), Mary Jo Eamigh (Ron) and Teresa Yetsko all of Altoona and her son, Steve Yetsko (Lori) of Julian; eight grandchildren: Kristin Franco, Johnny Franco (Miranda), Sarah Dean (TK), Steve Franco (Kaitlyn), Kim Meloy (Greg), Emily Winters, Ben Yetsko, and Max Yetsko; eight great-grandchildren; a special niece, Toots Rhoa and several nieces and nephews.

Rita was a 1953 graduate of Altoona Catholic High School and was a member at St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

She loved celebrating her German heritage at the Unter Uns. Rita was recognized in 2023 as the Silver Sneakers member of the year for her participation and attendance at The Groove-Zumba classes. She liked taking trips to the casino, bowling, but she especially enjoyed attending and following her grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s sporting events and activities, particularly the musicals.

Friends will be received from 2-6 pm, Sunday, February 1, 2026 at The Stevens Mortuary, 1421 8th Avenue, Altoona, PA 16602, where a vigil for the deceased will be held.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 am, Monday, February 2, 2026 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 1405 5th Avenue, Altoona, PA 16602 with Fr. Mariusz Gorazd celebrant. Committal will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Altoona.

The family suggests that contributions be made in Rita’s memory to: St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 1405 5th Avenue, Altoona, PA 16602 OR The Groove Foundation, 539 E. 25th Avenue, Altoona, PA 16601.

The family would like to express their appreciation to Pinnacle Hospice for the wonderful care that Rita received.

Condolences may be made at www.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com or Stevens Family Funeral Homes Facebook.

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Tributes

  • Red and White Handled Basket

    Helene C Flick sent Red and White Handled Basket for Rita M. Yetsko - 01/29/2026

    Our deepest sympathies for the loss of your beautiful Mom. Love from all of us. Joe, John and Helene and families.

Condolences

  • 02/02/2026

    Thom Geishauser

    May The Grace, Peace and Love of Our Lord Jesus be with the family, friends and loved ones of Rita & Bernie and flights of Angels carry Mrs. Yetsko home and into the loving arms of her Bernie. God bless all family, friends and loved ones. Thom & Sarah Geishauser

  • 02/02/2026

    Terry and Tom Martin

    Our most sincere sympathy for the loss of your dear mother. She was so sweet and had a friendly smile that made people feel appreciated. God bless Rita in heaven may she rest in the loving arms of our Lord.

  • 01/30/2026

    Nancy Honecker

    Rita was a wonderful women who treated me and my family like family. She was full of life and always so kind and generous. She is missed. My deepest sympathy goes out to the family. You all are in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Nancy H.

  • 01/30/2026

    Kim Dambeck

    Sending thoughts and prayers to your family at this difficult time. Kim Dambeck & Family

  • 01/30/2026

    Tom Saylor

    Thoughts and prayers for your families. So sorry to hear of Rita's passing.

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