You left us
beautiful memories,
your love is still our
guide, although we
cannot see you, you’re
always at our side.
-Ron Tranmer
Burley, Rita Mae
October 12 1943 - February 4 2023
Rita left us to reunite with Lou her husband of 60 years on February 4 2023. She leaves behind her 3 loving children, Kim (Alan), Kelly and Doug. She will be missed the most by her 3 grandchildren: Jeena-Marie (Ty), Jonah, Elizabeth and her great granddaughter Adaline. Fondly remembered by her sister, Elizabeth “Betty” White, nephews Bob (Leslie), Ken (Brandy), Richard (Spencer), Sean (Tara), great nieces and nephews; Cody, Colton, Madison, Kurtis, Quinn, Cassidy and Kiersten. Rita took great pride in her family and extended that family with supporting and mentoring many young lives through the years. Rita is predeceased by her parents Constance and Horace Stanley and grandson Aaron.
Born in Goderich, Rita spent the majority of her life between Belleville, Scarborough and Guelph working as a hairdresser and at the University of Guelph in food services. All her life she was devoted to her three children Kim, Kelly and Doug and dedicated to her community. In Belleville, Rita spent many hours volunteering at the school; was a dedicated member of Girl Guides Canada known as Snowy Owl; and was active in her church and the C.W.L in Belleville. While in Scarborough, Rita and Lou made lifelong friends and enriched the lives of many. In 1982, after arriving in Guelph, they added beloved members to their extended family, who have provided support, care and concern over the years. We especially want to acknowledge the joy that the children of the neighbourhood brought as they waved and visited with Rita and Lou in their later years.
Rita had a love for nature. She found great joy in her grandchildren, especially her great grandchild Adaline. Rita could often be found in the water teaching anybody to swim and providing rockets (candy) as a reward, with the assumption you would always share the green ones. Her five-star reviewed dishes include, university brownies, green pickles and van picnics. She often provided the best life lessons and moral support.
The family extends heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Potter and everyone in her office for the very special care of Rita and Lou always, but especially over the past few years. To the health care team at Bayshore nursing, thank you for your very professional and compassionate care. We cannot thank the team at Hospice Wellington enough for the exceptional care the whole family received in Rita’s final days.
Finally thank you to all of our friends and neighbours. Your care and concern, help, advice and company have made our journey easier and we appreciate each and every one of you.
Honouring Rita’s wishes, there will be no viewing and a private burial will take place in Belleville at a later date. For those who wish, in lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to Hospice Wellington (519-822-6660), Victim Services (519-824-1212) or the charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to Gilchrist Chapel McIntyre & Wilkie Funeral Home, One Delhi Street, Guelph (519-824-0031). We invite you to leave your memories and donations online at: www.gilchristchapel.com and they will be forwarded to the family.