Rita Beth Denhart

Rita Beth Denhart, age 73, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at her home surrounded by her family.

Rita was born September 21, 1952, in Boone, Iowa to H. Carol and Betty (Valentine) Crane. She had lifelong "South Side Pride" and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1970. She married Jim Denhart on September 24, 1982, and had a loving marriage until he passed in November of 2020. They entered into sobriety together in September 1988, and she was proud to have 37 years of sobriety thanks to God and AA. Rita was an active and supportive member of the AA community in central Iowa and at gatherings and conferences around the country.

Rita had a strong loyalty and unconditional love to her family, and friends she regarded as family. She was dedicated and honest, and when she made a commitment or promise she took that to heart. Rita loved being with her grandkids at all times, but the holidays held a special place in her heart. She loved gathering her family around her to celebrate.

Rita was outgoing and charismatic. She was the center of fun for most every gathering. Lasting memories were made on the Denhart farm in Mt. Ayr, Iowa with family, at AA outings, and just going out and about around town. She loved her bowling league days and Toad Valley Golf Ladies League days. She made lasting friendships through her time and involvement. Rita also loved to travel, and one of her favorite destinations was Las Vegas.

She is survived by her children, Scott (Janean) Denhart, Andrea (Russ) Vosen, and Rachel (Scott) Dickinson; her grandchildren Kyair Butts, Kaden Vosen, Kyanna Vosen, and Jacob Dickinson; her brothers, Pat (Jeri) Crane and Jeff (Jody) Crane; beloved nephew, Mike Crane; and a host of nieces and nephews. She will also be remembered by her very close friends, Mike and Pam Montano and her extended AA family.

Rita was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. James “Jim” D. Denhart; mother, Betty F. Crane; father, H. Carol Crane; and her beloved niece, Jennifer Ann Crane Cason.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Monday, December 1, 2025, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines. Funeral service will begin at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 2, 2025, also at Hamilton’s. For those unable to attend the service in person, it will be livestreamed through the link below. Interment will follow the service at Canfield Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Animal Rescue League, Mission Blood & Cancer, or UnityPoint Hospice.

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