1939 – 2025
Rita Ohara was born in the vibrant city of Vancouver, British Columbia to loving parents Wallace and Mary Ohara. Her early years were spent in Vancouver where she attended school and experienced the bustling life of the city. However, her childhood was shaped by the transient nature of her father’s military career, which took the family to various parts of Canada.
During her school years in New Brunswick, where her father was transferred due to his military duties, Rita met Claude. Their connection blossomed into a profound love, leading to their marriage. Their union was blessed with their first child in New Brunswick, marking the beginning of a growing family. The nature of Claude’s work took them on an exciting journey overseas where they expanded their family with the birth of two more children. Life overseas was filled with rich experiences and cultural exchanges, adding depth to their family’s story.
Upon returning to Canada, they settled in Cold Lake. It was here that their family grew even larger with the addition of three more children. Cold Lake provided a stable environment for their children to grow, but life took a turn when Rita and Claude decided to part ways. Rita’s indomitable spirit and yearning for new adventures led her to move to Innisfail, Alberta. Here, she channeled her love for cooking into a new venture, opening a quaint Soup and Sandwich restaurant. The restaurant became a beloved spot in the community, known for its warm atmosphere and delicious meals. However, life had more in store for Rita.
After selling her house, she discovered a new passion – thoroughbred horses. This newfound love brought immense joy and fulfillment to her life. She also worked at the Spruce View Co-op for several years, where she became a well-known and cherished member of the community. In later years, due to health issues, Rita made the decision to sell her acreage and move back to Innisfail to be closer to her family. Despite the challenges she faced, Rita always had a beautiful smile that brightened the lives of those around her. Her positive outlook and love for her family and friends became her defining traits. Rita’s life was a tapestry of rich experiences, marked by love, adventure, and passionate pursuits.
From her early years in Vancouver to her adventures in New Brunswick, overseas, Cold Lake, and Innisfail, her journey was one of resilience and joy. Her legacy lives on through her children and the many lives she touched with her kindness and warmth. Rita’s story is a testament to the beauty of a life well-lived, filled with diverse experiences and unwavering love for her family and passions. She will always be remembered for her radiant smile and the joy she brought to those who knew her.
Rita will be lovingly remembered by her sons, Keith Lemoine of Montreal, Scott (Sheila) Lemoine of Penticton and Rene’ Lemoine of Calgary and son-in-law, Elden Skarsen of Ardmore, Alberta and her daughter, Monique Lemoine of Innisfail as well as her seven grandchildren, ten great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.
Rita was predeceased by her parents, her daughters, Debbie and Jackie and her son-in-law, Brian Ruttle.
A private family gathering will take place in the summer. If desired, Memorial Donations may be made to the Alberta Cancer Foundation 10123 99 St NW #710, Edmonton, Alberta, T5J 3H1 or at www.albertacancer.ca or to the Alzheimer’s Society of Alberta #306, 10430 61 Avenue Edmonton, Alberta T6H 2J3 https://alzheimer.ca/ab/en Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.heartlandfuneralservices.com. Arrangements in care of: Heartland Funeral Services Ltd., 4415 – 49 Street, Innisfail, Alberta. Phone: 403.227.0006
