Rita Simpson passed away peacefully in Bastion Place, Salmon Arm, on Thursday, January 31, 2013 at the age of 98.
Born in Pincher Creek, Alberta on August 21, 1914; She was predeceased by her son, Larry Simpson and is lovingly remembered by her daughter-in-law, Geraldine Simpson Symonds; her much-loved grandson Todd Simpson and granddaughter, Cara (Mark) Reinelt; her son, Gary (Judy) Simpson and grandchildren Mark Simpson (Lou Edwards) and Marla (Craig) Turner and two great-grandchildren.She was also predeceased by good friend Art Finkbeiner and Bob Symonds.
Rita lived at the Rotary Gardens from 1987 until 2011.She rode the local bus to get her mail at the post office, tended her flower garden, canned vegetables and jam, made the best apple pies and cookies right into her 97th year.She and her neighbour at the Gardens, Marion Mitchell, were good friends and looked out for each other.
The family would like to thank the staff of the Shuswap Lodge for their kind and caring support of Rita during her 15 months residence.We know she was an easy person to be around as she had a positive attitude and calming nature.Thank you to Kate Dyck from Interior Health and the Community Care Aides who helped Rita every day.Thanks to Dr. Lorenz and the staff at Bastion who cared for Rita in her last days.
Donations in memory of Rita can be sent to the Canadian Cancer Society.
A celebration of life service for Rita will be held from the Chapel of Bowers Funeral Home, Salmon Arm, on Friday afternoon, February 8th at 2:00 p.m. with Jack Bowers the funeral celebrant. A reception will follow in the Mountainside room, allowing family and friends to continue sharing memories.
Interment will follow at a later date in her son’s grave at Mt. Ida Cemetery.
On line condolences may be sent to Rita’s obituary at www.bowersfuneralservice.com
Funeral arrangements are in the care of Bowers Funeral Home and Crematorium, Salmon Arm.