Rita Jean (Drosche) Zapalac, 69, of Hallettsville, passed away Monday evening, September 26, 2016, following a long hard fought battle with cancer. She was born on November 14, 1946 in Giddings, TX, to A.O. & Rosa Lillian Drosche. She graduated from McCallum High School in Austin, and received her Bachelor’s Degree from The University of Texas at Austin.

Rita’s 48 year marriage was to Wilbur Zapalac on August 10, 1968 and made their home in Austin. This union was blessed with one son, Barry Zapalac. Upon retirement, Wilbur & Rita made Hallettsville their home.

Rita was a soft spoken woman with a huge heart. She was an active member of the EEA Club, serving in several officer roles. She was also an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary and was currently serving as Chaplain. She found great joy in making and gifting afghans to family members and friends. She will forever live on in our hearts.

Rita is survived by: her husband Wilbur; mother Lillian; son Barry Zapalac & wife Michelle of Cedar Park; 2 grandchildren, Caleb & Jacob Zapalac; brother Keith Drosche & wife Ardith of Elgin; sister Joan Johnson & husband Ken of Clovis, CA; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and friends.

Rita was preceded in death by: her father; in-laws, William & Ella Zapalac; and sister Dawn Drosche.