Rita Ellen Coulter

With deep love and sorrow, we announce that Rita Ellen Coulter went home to be with Jesus on August 7, 2025, at North Island Hospital, Courtenay, surrounded by her family and friends.

Born on October 13, 1953, in Royal Oak, Michigan, Rita made the adventurous journey across the United States to Vancouver, Canada, at just 17 years of age. It was there she met her soon-to-be husband, Murray Coulter, beginning a life-long love story marked by faith, family, and friendships.

Rita made her home in Courtenay, BC, where she raised her four children. She is survived by her husband, Murray Coulter, and her children: Marilyn Ball, Lisa Russell, Aaron Coulter, Rachel Lacey, and Rebekah Gin. She also leaves behind her cherished siblings: Mary Dombro, John Walker, and Elizabeth Walker.

Rita dedicated her working life to caring for others. She served faithfully as a long-term care aide at Glacier View Lodge, and later as a home care aide, offering comfort and kindness to many in their most vulnerable moments. She was known not just for the care she gave, but for the compassion she carried with her—always available to those in need.

Beyond her career, Rita had a deep love for all creatures great and small, with a special affection for wild birds, whom she cared for with particular devotion. Her home was a sanctuary—not just for family and friends, but for the animals she adored. Her beautiful property was a living expression of her heart: abundant with fruit trees, vegetable gardens, and blooming flowers. It was a place of peace and beauty for all who visited.

Rita will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Though we grieve her passing, we hold fast to the hope of reunion—and we look forward to the day we will see her again in heaven.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the BC Cancer Foundation in Rita’s memory.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.