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RITA THERESIA MONIQUE CROPO
Born: Dec 10, 1937
Date of Passing: Aug 29, 2025
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryRITA THERESIA MONIQUE CROPO
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Rita Theresia Monique Cropo, who passed away peacefully on Friday, August 29, 2025, at the age of 87.
Rita was born in Belgium in 1937 and immigrated to Canada as a young girl. She was raised in the country on the family farm near Treherne, Manitoba, where she developed a strong work ethic, a love of nature and a deep connection to community. After graduating from high school, she moved to Winnipeg to study nursing at the St. Boniface School of Nursing, where she trained under the Grey Nuns, graduating in 1959.
Rita’s career in nursing was both long and distinguished. She proudly served as the scrub nurse during the first open heart surgery performed at St. Boniface Hospital - a milestone in Manitoba’s medical history. She went on to work at the Health Sciences Centre, and eventually concluded her career as an Assistant Coordinator in the Emergency Room at Grace General Hospital, from where she retired after decades of dedicated service.
Outside of work, Rita lived life to the fullest. She loved travelling, was an enthusiastic crafter, and was known for always being on the go. She also gave generously of her time, volunteering as a Goldwing at the Winnipeg Airport and at FortWhyte Alive, where she found great joy in connecting with others and giving back.
Rita was predeceased by her beloved husband Brian and by her brothers, Joseph, Cyrille, and Danielle. She leaves behind her sister Christianna Buller (Walter), along with her many nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends, all of whom will miss her deeply.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff at Riverview Health Centre (3E) and the St. Boniface Palliative Care Unit for their kind and dignified care in Rita’s final days.
In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place. A private family graveside service will be held.
Rita will be remembered for her strength, warmth, and tireless devotion to others. Her legacy of care and compassion lives on in all those whose lives she touched.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 06, 2025
