With profound sorrow and broken hearts, we share that Rita Marie Zook, 67, of Colorado Springs, CO, was called home to be with the Lord on August 14, 2025. She entered Heaven peacefully, surrounded by her family and love.
Rita was born on September 29, 1957, in Dawson, Georgia, to Jim and Virginia Martin. She moved shortly after to Independence, Iowa where she spent her formative years but always retained a bit of her Southern girl charm. Rita later moved to Salina, Kansas where she graduated from Salina High South in 1975. Soon after, she met the love of her life, Dan Zook, who had just graduated from KU law school. They married at the First Christian Church in Salina and loved each other for 48 cherished years. Rita was the most beautiful, loving, and wonderful wife a husband could hope for.
Rita studied at The University of Kansas and Marymount College and went on to serve 29 years in the Dean’s office at Colorado College, where her humor, warmth, and wisdom made her a trusted friend to both students and faculty. She became a beloved presence on campus, known for her kindness and her ever-ready smile.
During her time at CC, Rita became an enthusiastic hockey fan and loved taking her two daughters to games. She was also a devoted supporter of KU athletics, a loyal Kansas City Chiefs fan, and maintained an impressive knowledge of Formula 1. Rita also found joy in gardening, swimming with her children, playing golf, and giving her dogs way too many treats. She was an excellent cook and cherished creating those simple, happy times with her family.
Two of the most beautiful moments in Rita’s life were when her two daughters, Jamie and Forre were born. From that moment on, they became her purpose, her pride, and her greatest joy. Rita’s face lit up whenever she spoke about them, her love shining through every word. She was not only a devoted mother, but the very definition of what it means to be the best mom - steadfast in her support, tireless in her encouragement, and endlessly proud of every step they took. Rita never missed a moment. She especially cherished following their golf journeys, traveling near and far so she and Dan could be there, cheering them on with unconditional love. To her, being their mother was the greatest gift of her life.
Rita was a very caring and selfless person. She had a smile that would warm up a room and the most infectious laugh. Everyone who knew her said she would brighten their day. Rita lived with a quiet strength and steadfast belief in God’s love, which guided how she cared for others and faced each day. She loved her family so much and we will all miss her forever.
We are so fortunate and blessed to have known her!
Rita is survived by her husband, Dan Zook, her daughters Jamie and Forre, and Forre’s husband Hunter Berge, along with the whole Zook family.
A celebration of life will be held on October 12th, at 2:00 pm CST at Blue Heaven (formally the First Christian Church) located at 201 S Eighth St, Salina, KS.