Rita (nee Murphy) Zehnter

Rita (nee Murphy) Zehnter peacefully passed away surrounded by family on July 16th 2024. She was born in Manhattan on October 27, 1934, raised in the Clason Point area of the Bronx.

She graduated from Cathedral High School in 1952 and with the encouragement of the Sisters of Charity she put herself through Misericordia Nursing school to become an RN. Her notable experience as a nurse included working with the American Cancer Society and started a La Leche League in the Bronx. After earning her RN, she traveled solo around Europe, which included Ireland, establishing a lifelong connection with family that her children continue today.

She met and married Eric C Zehnter, a Graduate of Iona College ’52, in 1958. Together they raised five wonderful children.

She was a proud native New Yorker who enjoyed it’s many museums and diverse culture and shared the love of it with her children. Rita was especially proud of her Irish heritage, including learning to play the bagpipes in the 1950’s with the Glen Aine Pipe band and joining the Gaelic League in New York. Later in the 90’s she marched with the County Tyrone Pipe band.

In 1985 she went back to college to earn her Masters Degree in Health Care Administration which lead to her being an adjunct Professor at St. John’s University.

She was a resident of Syosset (1976-2005), Saratoga Springs New York and summered in Lake Luzerne.

She is predeceased by her husband Eric C Zehnter, and daughter Kristin.

She is survived by daughters Mary Zehnter of Manhattan, Karen Karadenes (John) of Greenfield Center, NY, sons Eric M Zehnter (Sally) of New Hyde Park, NY and Brian Zehnter (Amy) of Bellerose, NY and seven grandchildren: Rosina, Ewan and Madeline Zehnter (Eric), Christopher and Brendan Karadenes, Carsten and Declan Zehnter (Brian).

Calling hours will be held from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Thursday, July 25, 2024 at Compassionate Funeral Care, 402 Maple Ave., (Rte 9), Saratoga Springs, NY. 

A Catholic service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, July 26, 2024 at Compassionate Funeral Care, 402 Maple Ave., (Rte 9), Saratoga Springs, NY followed by a graveside service at 12:30 pm at the Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road, Schuylerville NY 12871.

In lieu of flowers you may donate to The Community Hospice Foundation https://www.communityhospice.org/donate

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