passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 89 & a half, having lived in Kelowna, BC all her life.
Born to Bill and Edith Smith in Kelowna on April 18, 1936, Rita was predeceased by her husband Ewald in 1987; her only sister, Marlene in 2024; her step-grandson Taylor Barski in 2019; son-in-law, Dennis Rau in 2020; and by her second husband Bill Arp in 2018.
Mom is survived by her children, Anita Rau (d. Dennis), Darryl Hanet (Wendy) and Melanie Hanet (Barry Barski). Granny is survived by her grandchildren, Jesy Mitchell (Reyna Seabrook), Jennifer Jackson (Jay), Neal Rau (Sheena), Colin Hanet (Chelsea), Andrew Hanet, Nicholas Hanet (Alanna), and Kyle Hanet; also by her great-grandchildren, Caleb Jackson, Rhiannon Jackson, Shemyra Brown, Briar Seabrook, Bowen Seabrook, Luke Hanet and Henry Hanet. Aunt Rita is survived by her numerous nieces and nephews. She was also step-granny to Jaime Husch and family, Courtney Barski and family, and Owen Barski and family.
Mom worked at various jobs throughout her life including Crown Zellerbach, Mac and Fitz packing house, Belgo Sales, and finally Canada Post.
Mom loved to sew, knit, crochet, needlepoint and loved to read. Mom and Dad were avid square dancers, she often sewed their matching outfits.
She found her niche at Cottonwoods and made a best friend in Renate.
Thank you to the staff at Orchard Gardens, KGH (Kelowna General Hospital), and Cottonwoods. And, thank you to Dr. Andruchow for her great care of Mom.
Mom will be cremated, there will be no service by request.
Donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or Heart and Stroke Foundation, in lieu of flowers.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
