Rita Alice Burtch

March 26, 1922 – October 30,2014

Rita passed away peacefully at Carveth Care Centre after a full and healthy life. She was the only daughter of Hugh Ambrose Brennan and Mabel Kathleen (Asher) Brennan of Gananoque. Predeceased by her beloved husband Donald Willard Burtch and by her brothers Hugh (Phyllis), Douglas (Viola), Leonard(Carol), Jack ( Anne) . Survived by her eldest brother Ray (Rita). Dear mother of Kathleen (Jon), Allan, Elizabeth, Stephen (Stella), Robert ( Stephen). Beloved grandmother of Cheryl, Michael, Amy, Caleb, Emma and Autumn and eight great grandchildren.
Rita was born and raised in in Gananoque. She and Donald started their married life in Rockport. After a few years they moved to Smiths Falls where she lived for over 40 years. Rita was a long time ward clerk at the Rideau Regional Centre. Upon retirement Rita devoted her time to many causes such as nuclear disarmament, environmental issues, recycling and the Green Party. In 1995, shortly after her husband Donald's death, Rita returned to Gananoque. Rita continued to be an active member of the community by serving on several committees such as Casino Watch, and Forestree. She was one of the first residents of Fox Run Retirement Home and spent six enjoyable years there. The family would like to thank all those wonderful caregivers at Fox Run and more recently at Carveth for their support and kindness. A special thank you to Dr.Therrien and Dr.Sajed. A private commital will be held by the family at Willowbank Cemetery. A celebration of Rita's life will take place on December 14th at the Gananoque Inn from 2 to 4 pm, with tributes at 3pm. Donations to Sandy Pines Wildlife Centre in Rita's memory would be greatly appreciated. (www.sandypineswildlife.org, or 8749 County Rd 2, Napanee, ON, K7R 3L1) A tree will be planted in Gananoque in Rita's memory.

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