Rita Knish was a caring wife, mother, and friend, who lived a beautifully poetic and impactful life from start to finish. She left this world suddenly on June 29th, 2023, at the age of 71.

Rita was born in Raleigh, NC to Harry and Winnie Karangelen on January 25th, 1952. After graduating from Sanderson High School (a member of the first graduating class!), Rita chased her dreams of music at Westminster Choir College in Princeton, NJ. As a member of the Westminster Choir, Rita sang with some of the greatest orchestras and conductors of her era, including Leonard Bernstein and Eugene Ormandy. She attended The Julliard School for her master’s degree (Solo Performance, Opera). After being invited to a competition in Italy, she was recruited by an agent and moved to Germany where she sang as a guest performer for over 6 years.

Upon returning to the United States, Rita worked in Property Management in Houston, TX, and then moved to Los Angeles, CA, where she met the love of her life, Gene. They were married in 1985, gave birth to their daughter, Lauren, in 1986, and moved back to Raleigh in 1988.

Rita was a force – a full-time wife and mother, who had a fierce desire to help others. She volunteered with National Charity League, Helping Horse, Friends of the Children, and was on the board at A Place at the Beach in Atlantic Beach, NC for 12 years (and President for 4 of those years!). After Lauren started college, Rita, never one to settle, studied real estate and achieved a Broker License, earned her insurance license, and started an insurance business that she ran with her husband, Gene, for the past 15 years.

Rita was an amazing person and immediately lit up every room she entered. She was the kindest and most thoughtful soul. She will be missed and remembered by the many lives she touched - leaving an impression that will last forever. Her legacy will carry on reminding us that we each have the unique ability to connect with others and live a life full of love and service.

There will be a Celebration of Life held on July 15th, 2023, from 2-5p at The Knish House (8609 Averell Court) and arrangements for this day are being handled by the family. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to your favorite local charity in Rita’s honor.

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