August 28, 1930 - January 4, 2019
Rita passed away (from cancer) with family by her side, at the age of 88. She is survived by her sister Peggy, brother Jim (Georgia), sisters-in-law Peggy and Ethel, nieces Kathy (Robert) and Tanya (Brian, Ryan, Kiah), nephews Wayne (Cheryl) and Darren (Kristi, Kasey, Kennedy), great nephews Travis (Shannon), Tyler (Jenni, Kaden, Maci), Kieran (Naomi, Aubrey), Sean (Ronda, Lena, Ben, Claire), and great-niece Tara; and many other nieces, nephews, aunts and cousins. Rita was predeceased by her husband Bill, brother John, brothers-in-law Stan, Sig, and Don, and parents Jim and Mary.
Rita was born in Mission, BC in 1930 and spent the first 18 years of her life on the coast in logging camps and on Cortes Island. In 1948 Rita and Bill married at Gorge Harbour, and then floated their house to Campbell River in 1952 - her new home for almost 67 more years. She made many lifelong friends during those early days in the fishing and logging communities. She often shared stories of growing up on the local islands, and the earlier days in Campbell River. Her memory of those early years was quite remarkable and a great source for family history.
Rita kept her mind active with crosswords, jigsaw puzzles, word and card games, and reading. She loved animals and dabbled at painting. Rita enjoyed family gatherings and celebrations, the opportunity for a tropical vacation, a jaunt to Las Vegas or Reno, or a camping trip. In retirement the Petries cruised the local waters for pleasure in their boat and traveled in the motor home with 'the odd stop' at a casino. Rita continued to enjoy weekends away with family right up to her last few months. She will be very sadly missed and remembered with love.
There will be a private family gathering at a future date. Flowers gratefully declined. Donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.