Obituary Overview
Rita Marie Reine Yakowich (nee Lebeuf)
Rita Marie Reine Yakowich (nee Lebeuf) died peacefully at Norwood Palliative Care on July 9, 2018 in Edmonton, Alberta at the age of 93. Our dear mom’s joyful spirit passed on peacefully with her sense of humour a blessing to the end.
Rita was born in Lac la Biche on March 2, 1925 to Jean and Fabienna Lebeuf. The only daughter in her family, Rita was adored by her five brothers who teased her relentlessly. Rita grew up to become an exceptionally strong and feisty woman who could be sassy but took no sass from others. She was also incredibly selfless.
During her first 24 years, Rita worked hard and tirelessly on the pioneering family farm, in the family bakery and in their chaotic family household. She left school at a young age, compelled by necessity to become the primary caregiver to her ailing mother who she cherished and admired. This prompted her lifelong interest in health, healing and alternative medicine, which she practiced and loved to share with family and friends.
At 24, Rita married Nick Yakowich and they proceeded to have five daughters and three sons, who they raised in North Edmonton. Until she was nearly 80, Rita’s home was essentially a bed and breakfast with no reservations required, where she extended a warm-hearted welcome to all family and friends who arrived at her door.
Rita’s unwavering Catholic faith was a source of great strength, comfort, support, and fellowship. One of her last requests was for all of us to continue loving and caring for each other.
Rita is survived by her children Juliette, Bernita (Michael), Emery (Marie), Leona, Lynn, and Cynthie; grandchildren Akron, Raven, Piper, Shaman, Anastasia, Natalie (Wade), Simon, Megan, Gabriel, Karma (Adrian), Arthur (Nikki) and Sebastien; great-grandchildren Corbin, Roxas, Guinevere, Savannah and Wyatt. Rita was predeceased by her husband Nick; sons Edward and Mark; brothers Claude, Florentin, Clovis, Emery, and Romeo.
There will be a visitation at 1 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 2 pm on Tuesday July 17th at Evergreen Funeral Home, 16102 Fort Road, Edmonton with Father Jim Corrigan officiating. Rita’s Interment will be at Holy Cross Cemetery at noon on the following day, July 18, 2018. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Capital Care Foundation. The family would like to extend their appreciation and thanks to the supportive and caring staff at the Norwood Palliative Hospice.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Rita Marie Reine Yakowich nee Lebeuf 2018.source
Death notice for the town of: Edmonton, Province: Alberta