Louise WATTS

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WATTS: “Rita” (Henrietta) Louise (nee Friesen), aged 86, passed away on February 3, 2010 at Bayside Personal Care Home, in Killarney, Manitoba. She is lovingly remembered by her husband Keith Watts, children Vaughan (Denise), Gerald (Velia), Glen (Peggy), and Michelle (Darris Johnson), and grandchildren Michael, Janet, Cody, Marlee, Haden, Delaney and Kieran. She was predeceased by eight brothers and sisters, and survived by her sister Alvina Giesbrecht of Winnipeg. Rita was born in 1923 in Gretna, Manitoba; welcomed by her parents Jacob and Maria Friesen, and nine older siblings. She loved singing and learning. Her mother commented that she knew when Rita was coming home after school, as she could always hear her singing. Her sister Alvina recalled Rita grumble at having to learn the same school lessons, when she felt she already knew them. Rita graduated from the Mennonite Collegiate Institute, then studied at the Winnipeg Normal School and began her teaching career at Marais, Manitoba. Rita met Keith Watts in Cartwright, Manitoba where she had moved to teach, and they were married in 1948. They remained lovingly committed to each other for 61 years and provided a secure, loving home for their four children. Through the years Rita continued as a teacher, teaching all grades, including multi-grade classes, and finishing her career with kindergarten. Keith and Rita moved from Cartwright to Gimli, Shoal Lake, Boissevain and then Killarney. In each of the towns in which she lived, Rita was committed to helping build the best communities she could. She faithfully attended the United Church, singing in the choir, teaching Sunday school, serving on committees, and cooking and baking for teas and banquets (and doing many dishes!) Rita’s great commitment was to children; in the classroom and at home She often had a nursery rhyme or a lesson to teach. There was always food on the table and a cake or pie on the counter. She enjoyed organizing and cooking for a crowd, ensuring there was enough food for all. Rita and husband Keith loved to travel. Their 1948 honeymoon was in Yellowstone, and with their young children there were camping trips to Kitimat B.C., Montreal, the Black Hills, Vancouver, and many points in between. Summers were spent at the cottage at Rock Lake, where children, grandchildren and various friends and relatives enjoyed the water, the mosquitoes, and yes, the food. After retirement there were trips to Britain, Europe, and Texas for the winter. Rita commented after being in Rome: “When we get old, we’ll stay home, but we’ll have lots of picture albums!” Rita’s last years became more difficult as she suffered a number of small strokes that eventually robbed her of her short-term memory. Keith cared for her with great commitment and devotion at home and after her move to Bayside Personal Care Home in 2008. Despite declining health, she remained happy and her personality was unfailingly pleasant. A memorial service was held at Killarney United Church on February 6 with Rev. Cole Grambo officiating. The music was chosen from Rita’s favorites and scripture read by Keith’s brother, Dr. Mac Watts. The eulogy and prayer was read by Rita’s children, daughter in law, and sister. Interment was in Cartwright Cemetery. Appreciation is extended to Bayside and medical staff, Rev. Cole Grambo, United Church ladies and Killarney Funeral Home, as well as the support received from family and friends. If desired, donations can be made in Rita’s name to the United Churches in Cartwright, Killarney or Boissevain. Killarney & Boissevain Funeral Home.

As published in Brandon Sun on Mar 06, 2010