Rita Marie Dirk, age 72, passed away on February 19, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM, on Friday, February 27, at Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, 520 Raymond St, Bismarck, ND.

A visitation will be held from 5-7 PM, on Thursday, February 26, at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Pkwy, with a Rosary/Vigil service starting at 7 PM.

Burial will be held at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery.

Rita was born to Frank and Katie Feist on March 7, 1953, and grew up in Edgeley, North Dakota. She was the 5th of 8 children. Her roots there helped shape the strong, hardworking, and family-centered woman she became.

On May 3, 1974, she married the love of her life, Dwight Dirk. Together they built a life centered on faith and family and were blessed with four very loved children.

Rita was the heart and foundation of her family — strong, loving, and deeply caring. She devoted her life to her children and grandchildren, and nothing brought her greater joy than being “Mom” and “Grandma.” Her love was steady and unconditional, and she made each of her children feel supported, accepted, and cherished.

She found happiness in sewing, canning, baking, cooking, volunteering, and tending to her garden. Her hands were rarely still, always creating something meaningful or nurturing something to grow. Through her determination and quiet strength, she taught her family resilience, kindness, and the importance of showing up for the people you love.

Rita is survived by her loving husband Dwight Dirk; her children: Justin (Tiff) Dirk, Jessica (Tom) Meier, Jodi (Miho) Deranja, and Janna (Tyler) Marman; her 10 beloved grandchildren and one step-grandson; along with extended family and friends who were blessed to know her.

Though her family’s hearts are heavy, they find comfort knowing her love will continue to guide them. Her legacy lives on in the strong family she built and the countless lives she touched.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you offer prayers in Rita’s memory and keep her loved ones in your thoughts during this time.