July 9, 1932 – October 1, 2018
She never lost a fight, not with marauding bears, mad trappers or the few unfortunate individuals who, over her 86-plus years, foolishly made the mistake of underestimating her.
And through it all she laughed, not a demure, mouth-behind-your-hand laugh, but the kind of full-throated, near hysterical roar that caused restaurant diners to turn their heads and involuntarily smile.
Rita Robbins was a force of nature. We can’t say with absolute certainty, but she may have been the reason that giant storms were once only named after women.
But Hurricane Rita has passed.
She took her leave at Wentworth Lodge on Oct. 1, almost eight years after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, a disease that incapacitated her but never diminished her. She was there to the end, her laugh, her frequently salty language, her confidence that she should be the centre of attention in whatever room she was in.
She was predeceased by her husband, Wilfred Hector Robbins, in 2004.
She is survived by her two sons, Grant Robbins (Linda) of Nipigon, Ontario, and Dana Robbins (Catherine) of Hamilton, five grandchildren (Clinton, Brandy, Dana, Nicola and Jacob) and seven great grandchildren (Aydin, Charlotte, Wyatt, Ellie, Nathan, Jaxson and Sawyer.)
Our family feels such gratitude to the team at Wentworth Lodge, Dr. Scott Nash, the nurses, the support workers, the recreational, cleaning and custodial staff. If there are angels on earth, they are probably working at Wentworth Lodge.
A service celebrating Rita’s life will be held on Friday, Oct. 5 at 11.30 a.m. at Turner Family Funeral Home, 53 Main Street, Dundas.
Donations to the Alzheimer Society of Canada would be appreciated.
Dear Dana and Catherine,
So sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Bill and Sarah
Dear Dana & Catherine,
Mary Lou and myself would like to express our deepest condolences to you both.
Your Mother sounds like she was quite the woman and we’re sorry that we never had the pleasure to meet and talk to her.
Steve and Mary Lou
Dear Dana, Catherine and girls,
My condolences to you all. I have such fond memories of your Mom back in the day (1960-65) in Red lake, she always greeted me with hugs, kisses and pinches on my cheek. Such a cheerful lady and a wonderful cook. Take comfort in the good memories.
Catherine Maxwell
Vancouver Island BC
Dana, i read your article about your mother and it touched me deeply. I will forever remember Rita, such a beautiful and bright person, i’m really grateful that i had the chance to meet her. I offer my late condolences to all the family.