Rita Therese Whalen, 51, of Freeland, died July 1, 2003, at her home.

She was born June 22, 1952, to Thomas and Joanne Falsetto. She enjoyed nature, fishing, photography, writing poetry and caring for more than 200 hummingbirds that returned each year to her home.

She is survived by her husband, Robert Whalen; children, Michael and Anita; stepchildren Dean and Melody; siblings John, Steve, David, Diane, Sharon, Marybeth and their families; and many grandchildren and step-grandchildren including Anthony, Sydney, Ben, Travis, Jennifer and Gregory.

A service was held July 5 at St. Mark’s Parish, Shoreline. Interment was in Holyrood Cemetery, Shoreline.

Arrangements are by Visser Funeral Home, Langley.