It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mrs. Rita Pagano, on February 20, 2022, at the age of 72.
Beloved wife for 53 years of Mr. Angelo Pagano, cherished mother of Rosa (Paul), Angela (Sebastien) and Dimitra (Steven), devoted grandmother of Ines, Elsha, Raphael, Olivia & Mason. She will also be deeply missed by her brother Louis Rigos, her loving brother and sister in laws Rocco (Isabella), Angela, Andre (Rosa), Mike, Antoinetta, Mario (Patricia), Frank (Mary) and her many god children, nieces, nephews, relatives and cherished friends.
Rita was born in Athens, Greece on Feb 16, 1950 and arrived in Montreal brimming with hopes and dreams at the age of 14. Like many immigrants at the time she began working at a factory to help out the family. From this young age Rita was driven by an inspired spirit and a strong work ethic and in just a few years she became forewoman of that factory where she was beloved by many for her fairness, humility, approachability and sincerity. She seemed to live by the idea: “You don’t need to feel good to get going…you need to get going to give yourself a chance to feel good.” With this idea in her heart, Rita overcame poverty and continued to flourish being accomplished in several careers, running her own companies, consulting, and finally her longest stretch as a funeral director. Rita’s strength, tenacity and love of life and people has been an inspiration and guide to many. Rita was able to use her strengths, her grace and her boundless kindness to help people cope with their grief and loss. Rita was a proud member of the Greek community and helped many people throughout her life. Being out around town with Rita was like being around a respected celebrity. People never hesitated to approach and greet her with joy & gratitude. Rita was a genuine, magnetic, fun loving, generous, and kind spirit that touched anyone who came in contact with her. She was beautiful and unforgettable. Rita was a devoted wife and an adoring mother to her three daughters. Her big heartedness extended far out into the community and she was a mother figure for many. A matriarch extraordinaire. .She loved to travel, throw parties, pay attention to the details and really knew how to have fun. Her wonderful spirit will continue to inspire the many of us who had the luck to know her.
In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to The Philoptocho of Holy Cross Church or Saint-Nicholas Church in her honour.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Rita Pagano 19502022..
Death notice for the town of: Anjou, Province: Quebec