Rita was born 9th out of 10 children September 25, 1933, in McLennan, Alberta. She passed peacefully surrounded by family on September 25, 2021, in Hazelton, B.C.
Rita was predeceased by her parents Alfred Houde and Antoinette Gingras, her siblings Arthur, Bob, Marcel, Roland, Rachelle, Cecile, Yvette and Marcella, her first husband Lawrence Belanger, and her second husband Maurice Lizotte.
She is survived by her 7 children, 10 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. She also leaves behind her sister Claire.
Rita spent her youth in Donnelly, Alberta before moving to Fort St. John, BC. She married Lawrence Belanger October 22, 1955. Together they had 3 children, Simone (Dave) Allwood, Rene (Kathy) Belanger, and Lorna (Randy) Combs.
On June 19, 1959 Rita married Maurice Lizotte in Dawson Creek, BC. Together they had 4 children, Pierre (Sylvia) Lizotte, Michael Lizotte, Annette Douglas (John Hall), and Denise (Greg) Fisher. Rita's large family moved to Hazelton, BC in the early 60's where Rita lived out the rest of her life.
Rita had all the time in the world for those around her, especially her family. Her house was a drop-in center for all. The coffee pot was bottomless, and her motto was "You are company the first time, the second time you are family. Make it yourself!"
Rita enjoyed all kinds of crafts, gardening and playing games. Her favorite card game was crib, countless hours of crib. Rita was very social and enjoyed all the dances at the local hall with her many friends.
One of her favorite passions in life was gathering with her siblings and their families. She took on painting local businesses throughout the Hazeltons, while running M&R Excavating with Maurice. She then joined the Thrift Shop and spent many hours creating decorations for the food trays (Halloween, Thanksgiving, etc) for the patients at the hospital.
Rita leaves behind a huge void that will never be filled completely. Her infectious smile or those sharp well-meaning words will be missed by those lives she touched.
Rita lived her final years at Roche View Lodge and then at Skeena Place. To the organizers and staff of both facilities, to the staff and Doctors at Wrinch Memorial Hospital and the Home Care Support, we the family extend a huge thank you for the wonderful care you gave to our mom, Rita.
Condolences may be offered at www.schraderfuneralhome.ca
Schrader Funeral Home & Cremation Services