On Saturday, July 11th, 2026, with her kids by her side, Rita danced graciously into Norm's arms to the tune of Moonlight Serenade. She was 91 years old. Born on June 6th, 1935, she was the daughter of Louisa (Dalpe) and Ernest St. Onge. She was blessed with a loving family and was fortunate to share many good times with all of them creating everlasting memories: Denise and husband John, and their children Jesse (Jessica) and Matt, Jim and wife Maureen, and their children, Jake (Stephanie), Shane (Ashley) and Mallory, Bob and wife Deb, and their children Christine (Pat) and Rachel (Chris), Lisa and husband Mark, as well as 4 great grandchildren: Conor, Shea, Tristan and Beau.

Rita was a secretary by trade, but her lasting legacy is that she was a lifelong caregiver. It started when she was just a teen, caring for both her parents in their battles with cancer. She lost them both by the age of 21. In her prime, she raised her own family, and in her later years, she cared for her brother and several of her in-laws. Her children were happy to return the favor when it became her turn to need care and support. We are forever grateful for the extra year we got to share with her.

Rita loved the beach and looked forward to our annual trips to Ogunquit and Moody Beach. When she started to have difficulty walking, we got her some "beach wheels" so she could continue her morning strolls, and she loved the attention it brought her. She took her final "walk" on the Marginal Way on Mother's Day this year.

Rita also looked forward to "Wine o'clock," sharing a glass with friends and family. Of course there was also "whiskey Sunday" a tradition her and Norm started many years ago! She had the rare gift of still having the company of lifelong friends by her side. Rita lived life to the fullest until the day she died, and we will have a celebration of that life and all the wonderful memories we share in the near future.

The family is very grateful to Cornerstone Hospice for the loving care she received this past year.

In lieu of flowers, give someone a hug, raise a glass, make a donation, take a chance, live a dream.
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