Sept. 2, 1930 — Aug. 16, 2025
It is with love and gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the passing of Rita Doreen Bourassa (née Gelinas) on Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, in Calgary, at the age of 94.
Rita was the beloved wife of the late Lawrence Bourassa. Together they shared a lifetime of devotion, raising their children and creating a home full of love and cherished memories. She will be remembered and missed by her children Carrie (Charlie), Laureen (widow of Jim), Tom, and Brenda; her grandchildren Nadine, Tricia (Frank), Jeremy (Cheryl-Lee), Anita, Jeanine, Ryan (Mylene), Taylor (Kooper), and Landen (Haydn); and her great grandchildren Alex, Austen (Leah), Braeden, Kas, Devon, Olivia, Cash, Alexis, Cecelia, Sophia, Kevin, Oakley, and Westyn. Rita also leaves behind her brother Denny (Anne); sister Delores (Bob); and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and lifelong friends.
Rita was predeceased by her infant son Larry; her brothers Maurice, Raymond (Louise) and Alan (Teresa); and her sister Aline (Tom).
Born in Medicine Hat on Sept. 2, 1930, Rita was the eldest child of Lionel and Alida Gelinas. She grew up in southern Alberta and spent much of her life in Fort Macleod and Lethbridge. In 1952, Rita proudly graduated from the Holy Cross Hospital School of Nursing in Calgary, beginning a long career as a registered nurse, later moving into the medical records department. She was admired for her skill and dedication, and the care she provided touched the lives of many patients and families in Fort Macleod.
On Aug. 22, 1953, Rita married Lawrence in Fort Macleod. Their partnership was built on deep love, shared values, and dedication to family and community.
Family was an important part of Rita’s life. She took pride in her role as a grandmother and great grandmother and delighted in many of their milestones. She rarely missed a game or race, and her enthusiasm for sports — whether baseball, football, curling, hockey, or track — was infectious. To her family, she was a strong presence on the sidelines, cheering them on.
Beyond family, Rita had many interests. She was an avid curling fan and a spirited card player, known to hold her own at a cribbage table. In her later years at Pioneer Lodge, she enjoyed the company of friends, lively games of cards, and plenty of laughter.
Rita was known for her sharp wit, a determined spirit, and a presence that left a lasting impression on those around her. Her keen sense of humour, generous nature, and the unmistakable sparkle in her eye touched the lives of many. Her memory will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Prayer service will be held on Friday, Aug. 22, 2025, at 7 p.m. at Eden’s Funeral Home in Fort Macleod.
Funeral service will be held on Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Holy Cross Catholic Church, Fort Macleod, immediately followed by a family interment at Fort Macleod Union Cemetery and funeral tea at the Fort Macleod and District Community Hall.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rita’s honour to the Canadian Cancer Society, 200 – 325 Manning Road N.E., Calgary, Alta., T2E 9Z9.