"Jean's family, My most vivid memory of Jean was in the 40's when Jean & Herb visited my Mom (Jean's Aunt) in their Ford with a rumbleseat. They gave us young kids a ride up and down my mother's hillside. We thought that was the greatest. We also seemed to meet Jean almost every summer at the Olmsted Fair with Barb and Bob along. All of you are in our hearts. Blessings, Cousin Herman"
In loving memory of
Jean DeEtta Rinn
March 29, 1921 - March 7, 2012
Jean DeEtta Rinn, 90, of Rollingstone, died Wednesday, March 7, 2012 at Lake Winona Manor.
An only child, Jean was born March 29, 1921 in Elgin, MN to Fred and Dorothy (Plattner) Sargent. She attended a small country school on Honey Ridge. On September 6, 1944, Jean was united in marriage to Herb Rinn. Although they were later divorced, Jean and Herb raised six children. They have fond memories of attending early morning Mass at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church and delivering St. Paul and Minneapolis newspapers around the Elba area on Sunday mornings. Jean also worked for Asco, Winona Knitting Mills, and was later self-employed painting houses. Always willing to lend a helping hand, Jean frequently cleaned houses for others and transported the elderly of Rollingstone to doctor appointments and other errands.
In 1946, she moved into her home on Washington Street in Rollingstone. Jean was very proud that she lived in the same house for over 64 years before moving to Lake Winona Manor in 2011. Jean loved gardening and tended to her bright flowers with loving care. She also enjoyed crafting, quilting, and polka dancing.
Jean is survived by her 6 children, David (Deb) Rinn of Rollingstone, Barbara Rinn of Rollingstone, Sally (Hank) Lettner of Goodview, Kay (George) Richtman of Trempealeau, Linda (Clem) Wiley of Minneiska, and Fran (Sheila) Rinn of Goodview; 11 grandchilren, David Jr. (Ann) Rinn, Scott (Tracy) Rinn, Nicole Rinn, Bob Rinn, Tim (Penny) Swanson, Lisa (Brad McGhee) Swanson, Katie Rinn, Laura Rinn, Chad Richtman, Michael (Meg) Richtman, and Krista (Jeremy) Bushmaker; and 15 great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Herb Rinn; long-time friend, Virgil Ellsworth; and aunts and uncles.
A memorial service will be held at 6pm on Jean's 91st birthday, March 29, 2012 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Rollingstone with visitation two hours prior. Reverend Thomas Melvin will officiate. A private family graveside service will be held the following day in Elgin Cemetery.
Please share a memory of Jean with her family, sign the online guestbook
Tribute video can be found at: http://videos.lifetributes.com/293525
Tributes
"Our prayers are with you and your family"
"Hi, I remember being with Bertha Yates (my Grandma) and visiting Jean at her home. Bertha always enjoyed visiting Jean. I have fond memories of those times. Jean was always friendly and nice. God Bless the family. Ross Yates"
"The season of mourning, like spring, summer, fall and winter, will also pass. - Molly Fumia"
"Dear Linda, My deepest sympathy goes out to your family at this time of sorrow...Losing someone you love is one of the hardest times we have to endure....Keep all the good memories alive and she will always be right beside you....Going back in history my mother-in-law was a Rinn...Maybe we are shirtail relations...With my deepest sympathy and prayers....Margaret E.M D."
"I remember going with my family very often to Rollingstone visit my Grandpa Virgil and Jean...I have great memories of playing games, playing outside outside and fun sleepovers. My thoughts are with you during this time....I am sure she and my grandpa will enjoy a polka dance together. Melissa (Ellsworth) Zamzow"
"Our prayers & thoughts are with you & your family Treasure all the wonderful memories & she will live forever in your hearts She now is enjoying her heavenly home Hugs Dick & Betty"
"To Kay, George and all the Rinn Family, My thoughts and prayers are with y'all at this difficult time. Love, Marie"
"My thoughts and prayers to all of Jean's family. She was a super lady, always willing to lend a helping hand especially to the elderly with cleaning or running errands - she helped mom numerous times. Although I'm sure some days were hard and tough for Jean, she always seemed to have a smile on her face and a friendly word anytime you would meet her. Treasure all the memories and she will always live in your hearts. God Bless."
"Sally and all Jean's family, My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this special time. I rememeber the overnights and fun times at your home. Your Mom was always so kind to all of your friends. Keep those special memories in your hearts."
"To Jean's family; I will always remember your Mother's kindness throughout the years. But our family especially appreciated her kindness to our Dad, when late in life, he required household help. Jean didn't stop at the usual household chores, but was quick to offer errand running to Winona, and other offers of generosity. Take comfort in the good memories you all share. Special condolences to Barbara and Sally. Nora Speltz Pearson, and sisters Martha and Jane."