1920-2010 - It is with profound sadness that our family announce the passing of our Mom, Rita Bellinger on Monday, May 3, 2010, after her incredible battle with cancer, a disease which never considers before invading. The strength which she demonstrated at the age of 90 to fight this disease was truly amazing and showed her strong will to live, and we thank the medical community for their support in helping to keep her at home to the end. Rita was born in Moncton, daughter of the late Edward and Eva Leaman. She was a Veteran of World War II, joining the army at 23 years of age, where she attained the rank of Sergeant in the C.W.A.C. (Canadian Women's Army Corps). Rita was an avid curler and a great fan of the sport. She loved Parlee Beach and could be found there every summer, and did so up until the end of 2009. She was well known on the beach for her "flowered bathing cap", which could be seen from some distance. Our mother touched many people and will be sadly missed by them, but none as much as her family, sons, Gary (Francine), Ossie Jr. (Shelley); daughters, Beverley Williston (Skip) , Sharon Gautreau (Jack); grandchildren, Drew, Jeffrey (Sabrina), Jennifer, Christopher, Lisa, Aaron, Meghan (Jason) and Seth; one great grandchild, Ruby Lou Rita; niece, Leigh Smith (Ken). In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, O.E. Ossie Bellinger Sr.; her sister, Eileen; two brothers, Edwin and Frank Leaman.
In keeping with Rita's wishes, there will be no funeral service. Sharing of Memories and Celebration of Rita's life at Ferguson Knowles Funeral Home Reception Centre, 1657 Mountain Road, Moncton (858-1995) on Saturday, May 8, 2010, 1:00 to 4:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, and at Mom's request, she would like any donations one would care to make in her memory to go toward her grandson Aaron's trust fund, the "Aaron Gautreau Trust Fund (Prosthesis)" which may be made at any branch of the Bank of Nova Scotia, for the future financial help he will require, or to the charity of one's choice. Online condolences at www.fergusonknowlesfh.com