SAFRUK, Rita Ann – It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Rita Ann Safruk (née Birbeck), after a courageous battle with cancer, on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.
Rita will be deeply missed by Ken, the love of her life and her husband of 61 years; her daughters, Jody and Jennifer; their husbands, David and Evan; and her beloved grandchildren, Drew, Jessica, Jake, Matthew, Conner and Sian.
Rita lived a remarkable life defined by her love of family, determination and competitive spirit. Born in England, Rita came to Canada in 1957 with her parents, Jack and Blanche Birbeck, and her older brother, Colin. The family settled in Newmarket, where she met Ken, and it was truly love at first sight. They became engaged just 10 days after meeting, married less than five months later, and remained each other’s rock ever since. In 1971, they moved to Sault Ste. Marie, where they built their life together and raised their family.
A gifted athlete, Rita excelled in track and field and hockey in high school and went on to become one of the better squash and tennis players in the Soo. She brought that same determination to everything she pursued. In her 40s, she attended university and received her BA in Sociology; in her 50s, she began a career in real estate alongside her dear friend Carey; and at age 60, she trained for and completed the first of several marathons.
She was, and will always be, an inspiration to her daughters, who inherited her love of family, competitive spirit and drive to succeed.
Rita and family want to extend a special thanks to Dr. Kuntz and Dr. Apostle, as well as her in home nurses Dawn and Monica for their care and support.
In accordance with Rita’s wishes, there will be no funeral or formal service. Her family will hold a private Celebration of Life at a later date to honour her. In lieu of flowers, donations (payable by cheque or online) in Rita’s memory may be made to the Sault Area Hospital Foundation Cancer Care Fund.
Rita was deeply loved and will be dearly missed.
Arrangements entrusted to Arthur Funeral Home – Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington Street E; 705-759-2522). Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.arthurfuneralhome.com for the family.
