RITA MARIE COURCHAINE (BLAIS)

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

RITA MARIE COURCHAINE (nee BLAIS) Peacefully on April 20, 2004, Mom passed away at the age of 85 years, at the Fort Garry Care Centre with her family by her side. Mom was born in St. Norbert, MB on January 27, 1919 where she spent her early years of life. She married Basile Courchaine on September 16, 1939 and lived in St. Vital all her life. Rita was predeceased by her husband Basile; daughters, Emelie, Irene and son Marcel. Left to cherish her memory are her children, Helen (Ray) Pfeil, Paul (Esther), Claudette (Guy) Therrien, Louis (Jill), Roger (Wendy), Cora (Gerry) Schmall, Claude (Bev), Roland (Bev), Dolores (Daniel) Lebrun, Gerald (special friend Sylvia) brothers, Rene (Georgette) Blais, Louis Blais and sisters, Rose Williams of Montreal and Mamie Hallet. She is also survived by 26 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren. Rita was employed by the Hudson Bay for 25 years and was a member of the St. Emiles Catholic Womens League. She was a wonderful mother and extremely devoted to all of her family. She will be sadly missed. Prayers will be held on Friday, April 23 at 7:00 p.m. and Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, April 24 at 10:00 a.m. both in the St. Emiles Church, 556 St. Annes Rd. with Fr. Rene Peeters officiating. Pallbearers will be her six sons and her grandsons will act as honorary pallbearers. The family extends special thanks to the staff of Fort Garry Care Centre for the excellent care and compassion they gave mom. In lieu of flowers, if friends and family so desire, donations may be made in Ritas memory to the Canadian Diabetes Association. The Coutu family in care of arrangements: EDWARD J. COUTU LTD. 680 Archibald Street 253-5086

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 23, 2004