Rita Legere was born in Collette, New Brunswick on May 9, 1921 and passed away on December 4, 2006.
She was one of eight brothers and sisters.
Rita worked in a hotel until she met her good friend’s brother, George Legere, and became his wife.
Rita and George were married in January 1944. They started their family not long after. George came to B.C. in 1953 to find work and set up a home for the young Legere family. Once he had done that Rita and four young children Roger, Lloyd, Roland and Gloria came by train across Canada from New Brunswick to join George in Kersley. George worked for Kersley Lumber and a few years later they had two more children Carol and Richard.
Rita was a devoted wife and mother, her weekends focused around things that meant the most to her and that was her family. Rita’s home cooking was enjoyed by her family and all who came into her home. The smell of mom’s homemade bread is still remembered by her children. Her home was always open to everyone and you would see a smile on Rita’s face when she played cards and especially poker. She had a great sense of humor and wasn’t afraid to speak her mind. Rita enjoyed her visits to New Brunswick to see family.
Rita and George lived in Kersley until 1990 when they moved into Cariboo Place Apartments and from there, Fraser Village. Rita never drove and was content to stay close to home. She enjoyed volunteering her time in the Fraser Village kitchen for teas and bazaars up until her illness.
She was always interested in how all of her 10 grandchildren were doing, and whenever she was having a hard day and was asked how she was doing, she never complained and always said “I’m OK and you?” She always worried about others, not herself. Even in her last year of being at Baker Lodge, she still loved the few times she was able to go home for short visits.
Rita wasn’t fond of her picture being taken, but that doesn’t matter because we all have a picture of Rita and her kind, gentle and loving ways in all of our hearts. She appreciated all of the people that cared for her during her time at Baker Lodge. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her.
Rest in Peace Mom.