Rita Wittorf Oesterwinter

Rita Wittorf Oesterwinter
June 29, 1929 – April 27, 2026

Rita Wittorf Oesterwinter 96, of Gig Harbor WA passed away peacefully on April 27, 2026.

Rita and her twin Ruth were born June 29, 1929 to parents Agnes and Max Wittorf of Neumünster Germany.

Rita grew up in Neumünster where she earned a degree in Municipal Administration.

In 1952 she married Horst Oesterwinter. In 1955 they immigrated to Quebec, Canada.

In 1960 they immigrated to the US, and by 1962 they had settled in California. They lived in San Mateo and Woodside while raising 6 children. They founded and ran a successful photo journalism business.

In 1987, with children grown and newly divorced, Rita moved to Redmond, WA to be closer to her daughters' families.

Rita was a loving mother and raised her children in a home filled with music. For nearly 60 years, Rita sang in choirs, during which time she developed some of her most cherished friendships.

Rita had a passion for fresh flowers and gardening. She volunteered as a Master Gardener which reflected her family's horticulture heritage.

She was preceded in death by her son Peter Oesterwinter, her DIL Linda Oesterwinter, her twin sister Ruth Blunck, and her SIL William Johnson.

She is survived by her sister Sigrid Kluth, daughters Heidi Johnson (William), Kathi Johnson (Edward), Inge Kelly (Kevin), Marion Geib (Frank), Sylvia Oesterwinter, 16 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren and numerous extended family and dear friends.

The family would like to thank The Lodge at Mallards Landing and the MultiCare Hospice team for their exceptional care of Rita in the last year of her life.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the ALS Association.