Obituary of Rita Patrick
Passed away peacefully on the morning of July 11, 2021 at Heidehof Home for the Aged at the age of 93.
Beloved wife of the late Joseph (1992) for 41 years. Loving mother of Rosella (Mario) Del Duca and James (Dina) Patrick. Nonna will be sadly missed by her grandchildren Matthew, Samantha (Brad), Cody and Hailey.
Predeceased by her parents Caterina (Grillini) and Francesco Riganelli. Dear sister of the late Mario and Savina, the late Antonietta and Silvio, Marisa and the late Nicola, Ida and the late Nazzareno, and Gino (Lucy) and sister-in-law of Ines and the late Christopher Pataracchia. Aunt Rita will be lovingly remembered by her many nieces and nephews.
Rita was born in Cerreto d'Esi, Ancona, Italy on January 22, 1928 and immigrated to Canada in 1949. She was a long-time member of St. Alfred's parish and the Catholic Women's League.
Rita’s firm grip on a wooden spoon came in handy working at the Riganelli family bakery - and just as well when chasing her grandchildren in their younger days. She was animated and bold and absolutely could not hold a poker-face - especially when she had a hand in briscola. And, like the surprisingly good homemade wine stashed in her cantina, Rita’s tenacious spirit grew with age. She was a jovial sports fan and loved to watch intense games of hockey, soccer and Let’s Make A Deal while enjoying a Labatt's Blue. Her competitive nature was applauded as an undefeated bowling champion; if she could’ve had a sponsor, it would have been Jelly Belly Candy. She proudly lined her shelves with trophies among her favourite art, family photos and a commissioned painting of her home town in Italy.
We wouldn’t doubt she is already stirring the pot with her predeceased siblings, Mario, Antonietta, Nicola and Nazzareno.
A heartfelt thank you to the caring staff of Heidehof, all their support was greatly appreciated. This last year and a half of dealing with Covid showed their true commitment to providing a safe and caring home for their long-term care residences. If desired, please consider making a donation in memory of Rita to Heidehof Home for the Aged.
In keeping with Rita’s wishes, funeral arrangements have been entrusted with GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL HOME 585 Carlton St. The family will receive guests for visitation on Thursday July 15th from 3pm-7pm with prayers at 6pm and a funeral mass to follow Friday July 16th at 11am at St. Alfred’s Church at 272 Vine St., St. Catharines. Due to Covid-19, please call to schedule a visitation and/or funeral mass spot at 905-937-4444.