Rita Whelan

Rita was born in Boskoop, Netherlands, in 1937 to Cora and Jack Vanderploeg. Rita emigrated to Canada after the Second World War, with her family in 1952. She married Colum Whelan in 1958 and later they raised their children, Rick, Paul, Pauline and Marla in a loving home in Aurora, Ontario.

As a bookkeeper for Magna International, Rita was known for her attention to detail and accounting mastery. She was the point person who helped train new CA’s in the finance department. After retirement, she enjoyed her hobbies of needle point and crochet. She made many afghans for family and friends. Her beautiful work also served as donations for the Catholic Women’s league Christmas raffles. She was most proud of her children and grandchildren’s accomplishments. Family meant everything to our mother.

She is survived by her children, Richard (Sylvie), Paul (Cynthia), Pauline, Marla (Scott) and grandchildren Bridget (Mike), Sinead (Sean), Peter, Carmen, Madeleine (Phil) and Benjamin as well as great grandchild Desmond. Rita is also survived by her brothers Peter (Marlene) Lou (Brenda), and Sister Louise. She is predeceased by her parents Jack and Cora (nee Moijman), brothers Hank, Jack, sisters Anne and Weije.

Arrangements are under the care of Thompson Funeral Home, 530 Industrial Parkway South, Aurora. The visitation will be held here on Monday August 18, 2025 from 2 - 4 pm. Rita’s funeral mass will be held at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Parish, 15347 Yonge Street, Aurora at 11 am on Tuesday August 19th. The family will leave for the burial at St. John Cemetery in Newmarket, following the mass.

Guests are welcome to join the family at the cemetery and continue to the reception, which starts at 1:00 pm in the party room at 900 Bogart Mill Trail, Newmarket ON, located on the NW corner of Leslie St. and Mulock Drive.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Rita’s memory to the Heart & Stroke Foundation and / or Alzheimer Society of Canada.