Rita Ann Fresquez-Arnett

-Arnett passed away peacefully at her home in Prescott after a lengthy battle with cancer on April 7, 2009.  She was born October 25, 1946 in Los Angeles, California; the daughter of Thomas D. and Rosalie (Pie) Dannenbrink.  Rita was 62 years old.   Rita loved the many facets of the horse industry and served as the Chief Steward for the State of Arizona Department of Horse Racing.  She had a strong work ethic and worked through Friday April 3rd.  Her love for horses began as a child and continued throughout her career in horse racing. Her early years were spent on the racetracks in Santa Anita, Hollywood Park, and Del Mar California. She opened the California Institute of Horse Racing, a professional jockey training facility, in the mid seventies. The school gained national media attention following the professional successes of her students. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and had been a long time supporter of Catholic Charities through the Sisters of Saint Louis.  She took great pride in her family, friends and co-workers.   Rita was married on June 11, 1989 and is survived by her husband Jerry; her daughter, Michelle (Andy) Price of Charlotte NC; son, Brian (Shelia) Arnett of Prescott Valley; and brother Thomas (Barbara) Dannenbrink of Coeur D Alene, ID.  Grandchildren: Calvin, Annabelle and Elizabeth.   Rita is formerly of Los Angeles, CA; Encino, CA; Sahuarita, AZ; and Phoenix, AZ.