Rita Melideo

It is with immense heartache that we announce the passing of our mother, Rita Melideo, on Wednesday, November 24, 2021 at the age of 80. She departed this life as she wanted – peacefully, in her sleep.

Mom was born in Castelpetroso, Italy on September 18th, 1941 and moved to Canada in 1953 at the age of 12 with her family. They first settled in Ignace, Ontario and then moved to Thunder Bay, Ontario. It was there she met our father, John. The two were married in 1960 and began their family shortly thereafter, having three daughters - Lina, Mena and Maria. In 1967, they ventured out west and made Nanaimo, BC their home, and lived there for the remainder of their lives.

Mom made many friends through her years of work at NRGH, Kiwanis Lodge and Nanaimo Travellers Lodge. In between jobs, she owned her own catering company - Hub City Catering. Mom was an amazing baker, known for her incredible pastries and her fabulous Black Forest cakes, as well as her many other desserts.

Mom was predeceased by her parents, Michael and Maria Armenti, brothers Tony and Nick, and our father, John Melideo; as well as, many loved members of her extended family. She is survived by her children, Lina Bolton, Mena McConnell (Carmen) and Maria Pushor (Daryl), her cherished grandchildren, Shawn and Kristi Bolton, Matthew McConnell and Kaelyn Pushor; sisters Anna Cavezza (Bob deceased), Gina Hahn (Tony) and Carmie Jursza (Peter), sisters-in-law Rosaria Armenti, Donna Melideo and Michelina Melideo; and many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.

Mom was also very fortunate to have some of the best friendships a person could hold in their lifetime; her long-time treasured friend, Marilyn; Lorraine, Charlene and Helen (her work buddies); her close friend and neighbor, Maxine and the Autumn Woods girls from the Friday night Cocktail Crafting Club; and good friend Ruth (Rooot, as Mom would call her), and so many more.

Mom was a beautiful, loving and caring soul, who will be missed beyond the measure of words. Hug your family and friends; tell them how much you love them.

As per our mother’s request, there will be no service. Donations may be made to the charity of your choice.

The following poem was chosen by Mom, herself . . . .

When I’m Gone

When I come to the end of my journey

And I travel my last weary mile

Just forget if you can, that I ever frowned

And remember only the smile

Forget unkind words I have spoken

Remember some good I have done

Forget that I ever had heartache

And remember I've had loads of fun

Forget that I've stumbled and blundered

And sometimes fell by the way

Remember I have fought some hard battles

And won, ere the close of the day

Then forget to grieve for my going

I would not have you sad for a day

But in summer just gather some flowers

And remember the place where I lay

And come in the shade of evening

When the sun paints the sky in the west

Stand for a few moments beside me

And remember only my best

Mosiah Lyman Hancock