Rita touched so many with her joy, and love of life! She will be missed! I meet her in high school and have been friends for a long time. The memories of the fun and happy times will be treasured forever. My love, sympathy and prayers to Bruce and family.

“Pray for me, as I for thee, that we may merrily meet in heaven”, said St. Thomas More to his daughter Meg back in the 16th century. This was one of Rita’s favourite quotes — way, way back in those 1960 days in the Abbey noviciate. Her journey is now done and all of us will “merrily” join her in years to come. And you, Bruce, will find strength and inspiration for the days ahead as you sit on your deck, gazing out over the lake. Best love and blessings to all. Joanne in Toronto

Oh, how hard to lose such a caring, fabulous friend. We keep the good ones from high school and she was a spectacular one- always encouraging and cheerful. I send my love to you all.

So sorry for your family loss.. I was blessed to Have known Rita since high school and am grateful for our recent gatherings.. as well as our earlier years together at Loretto.. thank you for your beautiful tribute to Rita at her funeral..
With love and prayers,
Sue Fenske

I met Rita 54 years ago at St. Francis High School where we were classmates. She was funny, smart, and very tall. She was always a joy to be around. Over these many years we have met seldom, corresponded infrequently and been glad to be friends. I have admired her newsletters, her devotion to the Ladies of Loretto and her courage in the face of a difficult illness. Her going to Ireland one last time was a blessing. Rita herself was a blessing to so many people. She will be missed. Rest in Peace,.

Sending love and blessings to you and all of Rita's family and loved ones. Yes, what an amazing woman! Now doing her Irish jig in Heaven, I'm sure :-)

So sorry to hear this sad news. May God have mercy on the soul of this beautiful, happy, fun lady.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a h-anam. (May her soul be at God's right hand -- in Irish)
Robert & Maeve Jordan,
Co. Kildare, Ireland.

Thank you so much. Jack and I are so very sorry for your loss. We were blessed to spend time with your mom at our 75th Birthday Bash reunion. Sweet memories were made.

Praying for your hurting hearts. And, yes, she is healed and with her Lord now~Hallelujah!!

Oh my gosh, i'm so sorry to hear this. My sympathy to Rita's family. I met her a couple of years ago and she left an impression. I reached out to her when she told me about her cancer as I am fighting a battle with Lymphoma and I thought we could help support each other. I admired her strength, quick wit and courage. May she rest in peace.