Sister Rita Gallagher
Fille de la Providence
Sister Rita Gallagher passed away peacefully in Saskatoon on March 29th, 2009 after a short battle with cancer. Sister Rita was born on August 2nd, 1907 in Centralia, ON and shortly after moved to Western Canada. In 1926 she pronounced her first vows in the Congregation of Les Filles de la Providence (Daughters of Providence) and from then on served the Congregation and community in many different capacities. Her teaching profession led her to different communities: Vegreville, Prud’homme, Leoville, St. Front, Viscount, St. Louis, Domremy, Prince Albert Institute and St. Brieux where she gave of herself with heart and soul. She always kept fond memories of all her students. After superannuation Sister Rita was involved in many catechetical and social activities and formed many lasting friendships. Sister Rita will be remembered for her Irish wit, her great spirit of hospitality, her zest for life and her great love of people. No task was ever too demanding for her. She always wanted to participate in all ordinary household tasks. Her spirit of adventure knew no bounds. At the age of 94 she took her first painting lesson. From then on she produced many beautiful paintings and enjoyed sharing them. She leaves to mourn her religious family, Les Filles de la Providence; her sister, Lucy Justik; sister-in-law, Marjory (Hardy) Gallagher; many nephews, nieces and friends. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. The Daughters of Providence wish to express their sincere gratitude to the Palliative Care Nurses at St. Paul’s Hospital for their kindness and compassionate care. Many thanks to Father Bernard de Margerie for his spiritual and friendly assistance. The Vigil Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 1st at 7:00 p.m. at Sts. Martyrs Canadiens Parish (1011 Windsor Street) with Rev. Father Bernard de Margerie as the celebrant. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, April 2nd, at 11:00 a.m. from St. Brieux Roman Catholic Church, St. Brieux with the Most Rev. Albert LeGatt, Bishop of Saskatoon as the celebrant. Rite of Committal will follow at St. Brieux Parish Cemetery. Arrangements in care of John Schachtel - MOURNING GLORY FUNERAL SERVICES, Saskatoon, SK (306) 978-5200.