Rita Rae Sandhagen of Coralville, formerly of Lamont

Rita Rae Sandhagen, 71, of Coralville, Iowa, formerly of Lamont, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at her home surrounded by her children. She was born on December 12, 1953, in Manchester, the daughter of Virgil and Faith (Hook) Sandhagen. Rita was raised in Manchester, Strawberry Point, Colesburg and Lamont and was a 1972 graduate of Starmont High School.

In 1975, Rita met Henry Nathanson. They married and had two children, Daniel and Esther (Estee). Rita ran an in-home childcare business in Iowa City called “Little Friends Daycare” while her children were young. Many of the families she worked with became lifelong friends. She then went back to school and in 1996 she earned associate degrees in construction technology and interior design from Kirkwood Community College. Rita went on to hold various positions in the construction and design fields throughout her career. Growing up with four brothers she developed a wonderful can-do attitude and honed her unique problem-solving skills. She was always ready for the next challenge. Most recently, Rita worked as a caregiver for young adults with autism. Her exceptional organization skills and compassionate nature translated well when working with her clients.

Rita always showed an abundance of care and compassion for people and animals alike. From her early days growing up on a dairy farm and participating in 4-H Fairs to her many pets throughout her life, she always had a soft spot for her animal friends. Recently, she was volunteering with the Johnson County Humane Society, particularly helping to improve the Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program that aims to address the community cat population. She was also an active member of her local community in Coralville, sharing warm laughs, tools and expertise with her neighbors, many of whom became good friends.

Rita loved her family, especially her grandchildren, and enjoyed spending time with them. Her world class popcorn snowmen and chocolate crinkle cookies were always a hit with the littles. She was constantly on the lookout for the next delightful activity to share with her grandbabies.

Rita is survived by her two children, Daniel (Katya) Nathanson of Suwanee, Georgia, and Esther (Keith Lyons) Nathanson of Hilo, Hawaii; two grandchildren, Ariel and Elena; her mother, Faith Sandhagen of Independence; two brothers, Ray (Julie) Sandhagen of Edgewood, and Rick (Deb) Sandhagen of Independence; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Rita was preceded in death by her father, Virgil Sandhagen; two brothers, Ronald and Roger Sandhagen; a sister-in-law, Kandy (Sheffert) Sandhagen; and a niece, Lana Sandhagen.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation or volunteering in memory of Rita, to further her work with the Johnson County Humane Society of Iowa.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com

Celebration of Life Service: 2:00 p.m., on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the Lamont American Legion in Lamont, Iowa.

Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Strawberry Point, Iowa, is assisting the family with arrangements.