Rita Hellman, age 70, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2022 after a courageous and inspirational fight against Melanoma. She passed surrounded by her loving family and ready to reunite with her son Zachary, her mother, Marjory McLain, and father Harold (Pete) McLain. Those left to miss her and carry on her memory are her husband of 49 years Bob Hellman, her children, Robbie (Drew) Hellman, Jody (Pete) Huffine, Chad (Jill) Hellman and her 5 grandchildren (Avery, Austin and Ellie Huffine and Davis and Walker Hellman) whom she loved so much. She will also be missed by her brothers Kriss McLain of Stockport, IA, Rick (Jayne) McLain of Keosauqua, IA and a countless number of extended family, nieces, nephews and friends. Born Rita Eloise McLain on October 6, 1951 in Fairfield, Iowa, she was raised on a farm outside of Stockport, Iowa. Rita attended Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa where she met and fell in love with Bob Hellman. They married in Ottumwa, IA on April 14, 1972. They honeymooned in Colorado Springs, CO and after falling in love with the area, left Iowa to set down roots in Colorado Springs. Here they raised their 4 children and started their own business, Springs Security Systems. Rita ran the books and was known for cheerfully greeting and connecting with their customers. Rita adopted the nickname “Tutu” after welcoming her first grandchild in 2009 and has lovingly been called that by family ever since. Living with a caring kindness, she nourished many lifelong friendships. Her positive attitude and strong faith were the foundations of her life. Rita’s laugh and her beautiful smile made the world a better place for those who knew her, and she will be deeply missed by so many. As per her wishes, she will be cremated and placed with her son Zachary. A celebration of her life is being planned for a later date.