Who is Rhoda Kraussa from Citizen of the Galaxy and what is their importance?

Rhoda Kraussa is the Deputy Chief officer of the Sisu, as well as the wife of Captain Kraussa. Unfortunately, her primary role on the ship is actually caring for her mother-in-law. When Thorby is adopted, Rhoda Kraussa legally becomes his mother. She is as attentive and encouraging with Thorby, as she is with her own sons.