Rita Ann Archambeau

Rita Ann Archambeau, 82, passed away on October 7, 2026, surrounded by the love and care of her family.

Rita was born on February 18, 1944, in Colorado, to Robert Horace Scruby and Madeleine Nima Scruby. She grew up in Colorado and graduated from Fort Lupton High School in 1962. Colorado remained an important part of Rita’s life, and it was there that she met Mervin Carl Archambeau.

Rita and Mervin were married on January 5, 1976, in Lake Andes, South Dakota. Together they built their family and spent many years of their lives in Colorado before eventually moving back to South Dakota.

Rita and Mervin welcomed three children into their family through adoption: Teandre, Trey, and Earvin Archambeau. Rita was also a loving stepmother to Mark Archambeau, Cindy Bittinger, and Shelly Archambeau-Davis.

Rita worked primarily in administration throughout her career. Her workplaces included the Yankton Sioux Housing Authority, Casey’s, Shopko, and most recently Mensch’s Greenhouse in Avon, South Dakota.

Rita enjoyed the simple things that brought her happiness. She had a special love for her cats and enjoyed playing bingo, working on puzzles, and rolling dice with her friend Joyce. She also enjoyed talking on the phone with friends and staying connected with the people she cared about. These everyday moments brought her joy and created many memories that her family and friends will carry with them.

Rita was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Mervin Carl Archambeau, who passed away on October 3, 2003; her son, Trey Archambeau, who passed away on March 6, 2004; and her stepson, Mark Archambeau.

She is survived by her sons, Teandre Archambeau and Earvin Archambeau, and her stepdaughters, Cindy Bittinger and Shelly Archambeau-Davis, along with other family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

In keeping with Rita’s wishes, no formal memorial service will be held. Her family will honor and remember her privately with family and close friends.