Obituaries

January 14,1957 – October 27, 2023

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Rita Marie Elliott (66).

Rita was born in Calgary, the second child of six, to Vern (Vorece) and Vivian Wellman and brought home to the family farm in Ensign, AB where Rita attended Brandt Elementary. The family later moved to the ghost town of Wayne, AB where Rita attended Rosedale Elementary. In 1966 her father purchased Shamrock Drugs and relocated the family to Grande Prairie. Rita attended Swanavon Elementary, Montrose Junior High and GP Composite High school. Working at the drug store after school and weekends she developed a strong work ethic to match her strong will. At 16 she moved out of the family home and eventually had to quit school. Later she went back and finished her grade 12 while working full time and supporting herself.

Rita worked two summers for the City’s parks department. Then in 1979 she joined Alberta Government Telephones in the central office rack department (connecting outside lines to inside equipment). In 1991 she was transferred to Fort McMurray where she was later laid off due to company downsizing. After moving back to her hometown of Grande Prairie, Rita worked at various companies including Northern Metallic, Pat’s Auto Supply, Decharme Trailers and Tuxedo Delivery. Rita was hired by Telus in 2006 and worked until an injury forced her to retire in 2018.

While out on a walk on October 10th 2009, Rita had a chance meeting with her former music room classmate, Bruce Elliott, who’s small grade 5 crush on Rita quickly flourished. Rita married her soulmate, Bruce in Campbell River on March 28, 2018.

Bruce and Rita preferred informal boat cruises in their 41’ Canoe Cove named The Brigadoon. For five glorious summers they explored the quiet waters and coastline of Western Canada. From Campbell River to Kitimat Rita relished tranquility, beauty and wildlife.

Known for her spontaneity they took trips to Dawson City, Yukon and her favorite winter’s spot, Liard Hot Springs to soak in the warm water under the glow of the dancing northern lights.

Grieving her loss are: husband Bruce Elliott, sisters; Laura (Glen Urness), Holly (Terry Clarke), Maureen “Dee” (Bill Whitlock); nieces; Jessie Urness (Cory Lenko), Kelsey Clarke (Tyson Schwarz) and nephews; Jordan and Joel Whitlock, Cale Urness (Randi) and Shaun Clarke (Amanda). Rita is also survived by her previous husband of 20 years, Phil Silvester of whom she maintained a lasting friendship.

Rita is predeceased by her; father Vern (1975), mother Vivian (1992), brother Mark (2009) and sister Wendy (2022).

There will be a Celebration of her life at Bear Creek Funeral Home on November 13th at 11:00 a.m. followed by interment in Grande Prairie cemetery. Afterwards a luncheon will be held back at Bear Creek Funeral Home. All are welcome.

If so wished, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, #100 119 14 St. SW, Calgary AB T2N 1Z6

Care entrusted to Bear Creek Funeral Home 780 830 7742 bcfh.ca