Rita Margaret Garofolo

Obituary for Rita Margaret Garofolo

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Rita Garofolo, a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, who peacefully left us on April 4, 2025, at the age of 95. Born on January 22, 1930, in Portsmouth, England, Rita immigrated to Canada with her family at the age of one. She lived a long, fulfilling life, filled with love, laughter, and meaningful connections to her family and friends.

Rita was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ronald, with whom she shared many cherished years of companionship, as well as her son Ronnie, (Jane) who predeceased her. Rita is survived by her devoted children, Angela (Brian) Belland and Mark (Sandra), and her treasured grandchildren, Tara (Vagelli) Sakellaris, Jana Belland (Justan), Zachary (Lisa), Chloe (Craig) Montgomery, Mikki (Joel) Campbell, and Samantha (Kyle) Ellis. Rita was also a proud and loving great-grandmother to Tyson, Van, Troy, Apsara, Tenzing, Gia, Charlie, Ronnie, Jaxon, and Carter. Her love for her family was the cornerstone of her life, and she found immense pride and happiness in watching them grow.

Rita was also preceded in death by her siblings, Winnifred (Fraser) Reavell, Alf (Sue), Joan (Rolly) Labine, Leslie (Gabe), and Barbara (Bob) Lipic. Rita also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, whom she loved as her own. Her affection and devotion to them were deep, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Her extended family was an important part of her life, and she will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate to know her.

Rita spent many happy days camping with her companion, Cy Albert, at Providence Bay on Manitoulin Island. Those summers spent by the water, surrounded by nature, brought Rita a sense of peace and joy. It was a time she cherished deeply, creating lasting memories with Cy and the friends from the Island she loved. Rita had many other passions that brought her joy throughout her life. She loved to keep her home clean and organized, and her love of shopping was well-known. Rita also enjoyed chatting with her dear friends, Claire and Lou, on the phone, and these conversations were an important part of her daily routine, bringing her comfort and connection. Throughout her life, Rita was known for her kindness, generosity, and strong spirit. She was a constant source of support and encouragement to those who knew her, always ready to lend a listening ear or offer a helping hand.

Rita’s legacy of love, care, and devotion will live on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Thank you to Roxanne (MAID), Dr. St. Martin, and Dr. Jackson who made us all at ease with the process. Thank you Dr. Bansal, Dr. DeBlacam and Dr. Peters for your care.

Thank you to Paramed PSWs Marianne, Wendy, Jessica, Donna, Tara and all the others that cared for her over the years at her home. Thank you to the Nurses and PSWs on the 8th Floor North Tower and 4th Floor North Tower at HSN for your care and helping to dress her for her day. We cannot thank you enough. Rita’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of many, but her memory will forever be cherished.

 A celebration of her life will be held on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at the Apollo Restaurant from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, where friends and family are invited to honor and remember the remarkable woman she was.

She will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

Cremation services provided by Simple Wishes of the North, Sudbury and Crystal Crematorium.

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