Mrs. Rita J. Firsching, 101, of Watertown, MA, formerly of Utica and New Hartford, passed away on Sunday, December 7, 2025, at The Residence at Watertown Square, surrounded by the love of her family.

     Rita was born in Utica on April 8, 1924, the daughter of Joseph and Julia (Heintz) Zobel. She was raised and educated in Utica, graduating from St. Francis de Sales High School before earning her RN degree from St. Elizabeth Hospital School of Nursing. On April 14, 1951, she was united in marriage with Norbert J. Firsching at St. Joseph’s Church in Utica—a devoted union that lasted 56 years until Norbert’s passing in 2007.

     Rita began her nursing career as a surgical nurse at St. Elizabeth Hospital and later worked alongside Dr. Pasquale Ciaglia, a renowned heart and lung specialist. She was admired for her professionalism, compassion, and dedication to patient care.

     A woman of many interests, Rita enjoyed knitting and was an avid reader throughout her life. In her younger years, she was actively involved in the Mothers Club at St. Joseph Grade School, always supporting the school community. She was a devout parishioner and dedicated volunteer at St. Joseph & St. Patrick Church, and a proud member of the Altar Rosary Society. In addition, Rita was active in AORN (Association of Operating Room Nurses) and longtime member of the Utica Maennerchor.

     Mrs. Firsching is survived by her two loving daughters, Krista (Lewis) Hinman of Harpswell, ME, and Tama (William) Gnerre of Watertown, MA; two cherished grandchildren, Tyler Hinman of San Francisco, CA, and Lindsay (Michael Hamilton) Hinman of Silver Spring, MD; and her sister, Irene Keane of Colorado Springs, CO. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her daughter, Linda Firsching; her sister, Alma Noga; and her brother, Joseph Zobel, Jr.

     Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Rita’s funeral service on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. at Heintz Funeral Home, 1517 Whitesboro St., Utica. She will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Norbert, at St. Joseph Cemetery in Yorkville. The family will receive visitors prior to the service from 10:00-11:00 A.M.

     In lieu of flowers, those wishing to remember Rita may consider contributions to St. Joseph & St. Patrick Church, 702 Columbia St., Utica, NY 13501, or Anita’s Stevens Swan Humane Society, 5664 Horatio St., Utica, NY 13502. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

     Rita’s family extends their deepest appreciation to the staff at The Residence at Watertown Square for the kindness, compassion, and dedicated care shown to her.