June 24, 1924 - February 16, 2021
With peace in our hearts, we have said farewell to our sister, our friend and our Tante Riet (96), on February 16, 2021.
Rita De Groot was born on June 24, 1924, in Zoetermeer, The Netherlands. Rita was the oldest child of Gerrit and Maria de Groot. She is survived by her sisters Vroon Vollebregt (New Zealand) and Ria (Bill) Groenewegen (Ontario); her brothers Gerard (Quirina) (The Netherlands) and Ton (Corine) (British Columbia); and her sisters-in-law Truus, Els and Ria.
Rita is predeceased by brothers, sisters and their spouses: Greet and Piet, Adrian and Martha, Piet and Nell, Leonard, Nell, Gus and Louise, Henk, Jan, Lia and Bert, and Chris. Rita is dearly loved and will be fondly remembered by her many nieces and nephews and their families.
Rita immigrated to Canada in 1958. She worked as a nurse in Vancouver and Smithers. Loving her work and being valued in her positions, she had this career until she reached the age of 80. Rita moved to Chilliwack in 2014 and spent her final years enjoying the mountain view in Agassiz.
Being the oldest of 14 children and the loving Tante Riet to 63 nieces and nephews, Rita became the matriarch of the family after her mother passed away in 1957. She knew everyone in her family well and she cared for them all.
Rita loved to travel and frequently visited her family and friends, as well as many tourist locations. Rita enjoyed the beauty of nature and flowers. She loved music and singing, and she never missed an opportunity to play cards.
Rita's family is very grateful for the excellent care that she received at Park Place Seniors Living.
Rita is resting peacefully at Henderson's Funeral Home in Chilliwack. The funeral mass will be held on February 22 at 11am at St. Mary's Church, Chilliwack. A live stream of the service can be followed at St. Mary's (Saint Mary's Chilliwack YouTube).
In lieu of flowers, donations to the BC Mental Health Foundation or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.