Rita Theresa Clarke

With heavy hearts, surrounded by family, we announce Rita left us to be with her beloved late husband Bill on Sunday February 26, 2023.

Rita was the most thoughtful, caring and selfless Mother to: Mary-Jean Bye (Mike Donoghue), Nancy Perilli (Terry), Bill (Margie), and Jeff. Rita was proud of her Grandchildren, Joseph Perilli (Bobbi), Daniel Perilli (Sara), Julie LeBlanc (Shawn), Melissa Knox (James), Jessica Bye (Kyle ), Emily Clarke, Jeannie Clarke (Liam), Marcella Levesque (John), Billy Clarke (Cassie ) and Samuel Andre-Clarke. Rita had a great love for children, especially her great grandchildren: Rowan, Leven and Sutton Perilli, Cohlsen and Ryland Perilli, Lily Powers, Grace and Georgia LeBlanc, and baby Charles Levesque all of who gave her such joy.

Rita was born in 1931 to Charles and Maria Caravaggie. Pre-deceased by her siblings Nick, Paul, Tony, Mike, Fred, Joseph, Grace and Helen. Survived by her loving sister Margaret (Heath). Cherished sister-in-law to Helen Ferguson (Wayne), and Josephine Clarke (Cal).

After retiring from A&P, Rita tirelessly volunteered for many community organizations. Rita’s house was always open to family and friends, where life was lived around the kitchen table. Mom was the Matriarch of our family, who taught us love and kindness and the importance of family. Moms devoted faith guided her throughout her life. From swimming at the YMCA to weekly cards, Mom formed strong friendships that she cherished. Mother loved kids. Her legacy lives on in the Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren that she adored.

Visitation will be held Wednesday March 1, 2023 from 1:30 to 2:30 pm at the Cathedral of St. Peter-In-Chains, 411 Reid Street, Peterborough followed by a Funeral Mass at 2:30 pm. Interment will follow at St. Peter’s Cemetery. In Memory of Mom, please perform an unselfish act to those less fortunate. Donations in her memory may be made to Hospice Peterborough and the Canadian Cancer Society.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.comstockkaye.com for the Clarke family.