Rita Griffin

Riverside- Rita Jean Griffin, 75 of Riverside, died Tuesday January, 27, 2026 at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics surrounded by family following a brief illness.

In lieu of services honoring Rita's wishes, the family will have a private burial and a celebration of life with luncheon for family and friends to follow on April 18, 2026, more details to come.

Rita was born November 25, 1950 at Mercy Hospital in Iowa City, the daughter to Louis and Evelyn Kral Jr. she married Paul Joseph Griffin on November 7,1980 at St Patrick's Catholic Church in Iowa City. Rita was employed by University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in the Outreach department under the direction of Dr John Fieselmann. She started at the UIHC right after graduating from typing college. Rita retired in 2013 after 43 years of service.

Rita enjoyed watching sports, especially the Iowa Hawkeyes, having their farm animals and dogs around. She loved her family dearly.

Rita is survived by her husband of 45 years, Paul; children, Chad of Oskaloosa, and Sara (Nate McAvan) of Hazel Green, WI; grandchildren Griffin Russell and Grant Russell of Iowa City; brothers Robert (Pam) Kral of Kalona, Richard (Sharon) Kral of Omana, NE, and Ronald Kral of Coralville; brother-in-law Vern (Susie) Griffin of Iowa City, sister-in-law Theresa Williams of Iowa City, sister-in-law Jean Goodnow of Saginaw, MI, brother-in-law Donald Griffin of Boise, ID; along with several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, parents in law Daniel and Mary Jo Griffin, sister-in-law Ruth Ann Good, and brother-in-law Keith Griffin.