Florita “Rita” Garst, 68, of Lafayette, passed away Friday, April 29, 2016 at her residence. She was born January 31, 1948, in Tippecanoe County, to Betty Lake Cooper of Lafayette and the late Donald Edmondson.
She graduated from Wainwright High School and retired from Cloth World. During retirement, she enjoyed watching her great nieces and nephews and grandson and spending time with family and friends.
On June 22, 1991 she married William Garst and he survives.
Rita was an active member of the Eagles Lodge #347 where she had served as the past Auxiliary President for three terms  and also served as the past State Auxiliary President for 2010-2011. She enjoyed crafts, sewing and fundraisers. She loved fairies and dragonflies. Rita loved to do anything to help children. During her State Presidency she worked diligently to raise money for the State CASA program. Surviving along with her husband and mother are three children, Andrew Fiddler of Spencer, Don Dean Niccum (wife Jennifer) and Amanda Robertson (husband Craig) both of Lafayette, and two step-children, Michael Garst and Michelle Garst-Cottingham both of Tipton. Also surviving are three sisters, Becky Edmondson Wilt (husband Don), Jane Edmondson Boyer, Lori Riehle (husband Ed) and a brother, Shell Edmondson (wife Dee). She is also survived by three grandchildren, Sam Sigman, Gabe Sigman and Jackson Niccum,  and a great grandchild, Juniper Satchell all of Lafayette.
A celebration of her life will be held at the Eagles Lodge #347 in Lafayette on May 14th at 6PM with Eagle Memorial Service.
Those wishing may contribute in Rita’s name to the charity of your choice.