Rita Currie

With heavy hearts, we announce that Rita Currie passed away peacefully, with family by her side, on April 1st at Oliver Lodge in Saskatoon. She was 102 years old.

Rita was predeceased by her parents and siblings, her husband Harold, daughter Janet Olynyk, son-in-law Wilf Gardner, and grandson Chris Currie. She is survived by her children: Carolyn Gardner, Eddie, Linda Beallie (Ron), Roy (Eileen), and Wayne. She also leaves behind 7 grandchildren: Terri Maxwell, Helena Hart, Kevin Currie, Leslie Osatchuk, Angie Hamp, Amanda Kweens, and Shawn Currie, 12 great grandchildren, and 4 great-great grandchildren.

Rita Doherty was born on August 22nd, 1922, in Petty Harbour, Newfoundland. She was raised in an orphanage and would often recount stories of her time there. She worked at the Purity Cookie Factory in St. John’s until she met her future husband, Harold while he was stationed in Newfoundland during the Second World War. They were married in Newfoundland in 1944, and then moved back to Saskatchewan, where they farmed near Shell Lake before settling in Saskatoon.

Rita enjoyed spending time with her family and many friends. She was well known for using every dish, pot, and utensil that she owned to make special meals for her family. Rita spent countless hours tending to her flower garden, knitting, crocheting, and sewing. Harold and Rita spent many weekends with friends and family at the farm and travelling around Saskatchewan in their truck camper. Rita also loved animals and had many dogs and cats as pets over the years. She had many brushes with illness in her later years, but she was a tough cookie and always kept her cheery demeanor. She was always looking to chat and make a new friend.

Thank you to the Oliver Lodge staff for providing wonderful care for Rita over the past 2 years. At Rita’s request, there will be no funeral service, but the family would love to hear your stories or favorite memories of Rita. They can be sent to BeallieFamily@gmail.com. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation, in memory of Rita, to the Saskatoon SPCA or Animal Rescue of your choice.

Martens Warman Funeral Home is honoured to be entrusted with Rita's care and arrangements.