Retha Mae (Elmore) Blanc was born on March 27, 1937, to Vivian Retha (Willis) and Ray Alford Elmore in Saline, Mercer County, Missouri. On April 13, 2026, Retha passed away at the age of 89, surrounded by many of her loved ones in body and spirit.
Retha grew up living on a farm with her parents in Clay Township, Harrison County, Missouri. In January of 1943, Retha was blessed with a little sister, Linda Kay.
On July 2, 1954, Retha married Earnest Duane Baker in Davis City, Decatur County, Iowa. In April of 1955, their daughter, Debra, was born. Retha graduated from Leon High School in June of that year. The small family moved to Thermopolis, Wyoming. In September of 1956, their second daughter, Dulinda, was born.
On April 30, 1959, Retha and Duane were baptized and confirmed members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Cody, Wyoming. In January 1960, their third daughter, Bernie, was born in Cody, Wyoming. This birth was very hard on Retha’s body. The members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints helped her immensely during this time and Retha remained an active and devout member the rest of her life.
In August of 1962, Retha and the girls left Wyoming to return to her parents’ farm in Missouri. In January of 1963, Retha and the girls moved to Independence, Missouri and lived with her sister, Linda. Retha had various jobs until she went to work for the Federal Government in the Department of Health and Human Services. She retired from her service in July of 1987.
Square Dancing was a great love in Retha’s life. She met Robert (Bob) Herman Blanc at a square dance. They were married on June 21, 1979, and continued to square dance for many years. Bob and Retha also traveled the world together.
Retha was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Vivian, and her sister, Linda Wilson. Retha is survived by her husband, Robert; three daughters: Debra & husband, Edward Ramer; Dulinda Rudaitis; Bernie Atagi; thirteen grandchildren and their spouses: Eddie & Roz Ramer; Danielle Goodell; Brandi & Kat Samborski; Raeann Fenton; David Rudaitis; Jason & Wendeline Rudaitis; Patrick Rudaitis; Tui & Lou Atagi; Maile & Rob Gage; Tanei & Jed Henry; Nelson & Casch Atagi; Simo & Sammi Atagi; Kalei & Chris Patterson; many great-grandchildren; and great-great grandchildren; also brother-in-law, Wilbur Wilson, nephews, Todd and Tony Wilson and their families.
Visitation will be held from 10:00-11:00 a.m. with Funeral Services at 11:00 a.m. Saturday April 18th at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 2700 Ensign Hill Dr. Platte City, MO 64079.
