March 28, 1933 - June 4, 2020
Rita Gloria Blanchard (nee Wood) passed peacefully on June 4th at Hillside Village, Salmon Arm at the age of 87. Born March 28, 1933 in Merritt BC. She and first husband Art Clarkston raised 5 children in Merritt, where Rita enjoyed gardening, and sewing for her children. She loved the Nicola Valley area and its abundant nature.
She met her second husband Cyr in 1966. Cyr was in the mining industry and Rita followed him to various mining jobs around the province, eventually settling in Revelstoke. Cyr continued to travel to work and Rita spent time with her beloved pets and her many friends in the community, including those at the Kingdom Hall. Cyr later established Ram Rock Drilling and Blasting and Rita assisted in running the business. During this time Rita and Cyr reached out and cared for Cyr's nephews who had lost both of their parents (Armando, Derek, Alain, and Edwin Blanchard).
Rita was predeceased by her parents Larry and Audrey Wood, stepfather Bob Mercer, brother Larry Wood Jr, grandson Cale Clarkston, and her loving husband Cyr. She is survived by her children Garry Clarkston (Brenda), Jane Robinson (Orville), Randy Clarkston (Debbie), Kim Clarkston (Maria), Kal Clarkston, her Blanchard nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren
The family wishes to thank the staff at Hillside Village and her good friend Heather for their loving care.
A celebration of Rita's life will take place at a later date.
Online condolences may be forwarded to the family through Rita's obituary at www.bowersfuneralservice.com
Bowers Funeral Home and Crematorium