Rita Knisel Ensley

Rita M. Ensley, Topeka, passed away peacefully January 26, 2018. She was born June 7, 1930, in Topeka, KS, the daughter of Ray Knisel and Marie Cooper Knisel. She graduated from Hayden High School in 1948 and Washburn University in 1952 with a B.A. Degree, and again in 1967 with a teaching degree. She taught kindergarten at Lyman Elementary School for 28 years, loving every minute of it before retiring.

Rita met her husband, Arden K. Ensley, in Torts class while they were both attending Washburn Law School. They were married on October 2, 1954, at Mater Dei Holy Name Catholic Church in Topeka, KS. Rita was a member of the Alpha Phi Sorority, Nonoso Women's Honor Society, Delta Kappa Gamma Teachers Society, and AAUW Women's Club.

Rita was preceded in death by her husband, Arden; and son, John. She is survived by sons, Jeff Ensley, JD Ensley and wife Yarlenis; daughter, Charna Williams and husband Bruce; and daughters-in-law, the Hon. Elizabeth Ensley Deiter and Lillian Ensley. Grandchildren are Justin Williams, Jessica Ostmeyer and husband Ryan, Dr. Daniel Ensley, Xavier Colletta, Ethan Ensley, and Ian Ensley. Great grandchildren are Chase and Katherine Ostmeyer.

A Rosary will be prayed at 6:00 p.m. followed by visitation until 8:00 p.m. on Friday, February 2, 2018, at Penwell-Gabel Southwest Chapel 3700 SW Wanamaker road. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 3, 2018, at Christ The King Catholic Church. Private interment will be at Mount Hope Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Salvation Army, Let's Help, or the organization of the donor's choice.

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