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Rita Swan

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RITA MARIE SWAN

(née CASSELS)

February 23, 1955 – September 18, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Rita Marie Swan (née Cassels) on September 18, 2025, at the age of 70, after a brief battle with ALS.


Rita is lovingly remembered by her husband of 45 years, John, and their three daughters, Kristin (Jonathan), Jaimie, and Lauren. She was a devoted grandmother to Avalyn, Asher, Jordan, Baylee, and Brea. Rita is also survived by her mother, Audrey, her sisters Eleanor (Les), Daphne, and Kathleen (Jim), as well as numerous sisters- and brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family and loving friends. Rita is predeceased by her father, Jim, and her brother-in-law, Gord.


Rita was raised on a farm near Warren, MB where she attended school and was active in various school extracurricular activities, sports, and 4-H. After completing high school, she moved to Winnipeg and completed secretarial courses. Rita met John in her early twenties while he was the photographer at her sister’s wedding. After a 4-year courtship, they married on June 21, 1980, and moved to Thunder Bay, Ontario, where they started their family and built lifelong friendships. In 1991, the family returned to Winnipeg and settled in Westwood where they remained for 26 years.


A dedicated member of St. Andrew’s River Heights United Church, Rita gave her time and energy to various committees, including the Worship Committee. A strong ally for the 2SLGBTQI+ community within the church, she also served on the Affirming Committee. She was actively involved with the United Church Conference and served as the district representative for the Prairie to Pine region. Rita was a welcoming presence every Sunday, often serving as a greeter or usher. In 2023, she proudly completed her lay ministry training and began preaching throughout Manitoba which brought her great purpose and joy.


Rita loved to travel. Her travel highlights include multiple mission trips to Guatemala, exploring France and the UK, vacationing in Mexico with friends, visiting her daughter in Dubai, and making cherished memories earlier this year in New Zealand. Known for her no-nonsense attitude, Rita was a talented seamstress, enjoyed curling, puzzles, a cold glass of Pinot Grigio and socializing with family and friends.


After overcoming uterine cancer ten years ago, Rita gained a deeper appreciation for the relationships she had with the people she loved. Her greatest joy was being a grandmother, actively supporting her grandchildren in all aspects of their lives.


A Celebration of Life will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at St. Andrew’s River Heights United Church, 255 Oak Street, Winnipeg, MB. Reception to follow.


In lieu of flowers, donations in Rita’s memory may be made to the St. Andrew’s River Heights United Church Foundation, the ALS Society of Manitoba, or CancerCare Manitoba.


Rita will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for her devotion to her family, faith and community. She will forever be a strong presence in our collective memories. We love you.


Rita’s family kindly requests that all of her friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour her memory by sharing photos, memories, and stories, using the comment section on this page.


ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

1833 Portage Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

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Angie and Gary

October 2, 2025 at 1:27 PM

Dear John and family

Our deepest sympathy in the loss of your wife, mother, and friend. Rita will always be fondly remembered by her welcoming and cheerful smiles. Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

Christina Cassels

October 2, 2025 at 11:04 AM

Sorry we cannot be there with you all today. We send our condolances on Rita's sudden passing We remember her warm smile and enthusiasm as well as her support for the affirming congregation. I regret I did not hear her preach. She did a lovely memorial at the Warren cemetary at our last family reunion. Big hugs and love to you all.

Chrissie Cassels snd Sandra Summers

Betty and Lou Jubinville

October 1, 2025 at 10:49 PM

Our thoughts are with John and the family at this very sad time. Rita was a good friend and we have many fond memories working togeather at DDVL, at our church, and in our personal lifes. Her kindness and friendship will live on in our hearts and memories.

Irene & Paul Dymerski

October 1, 2025 at 10:12 PM

What wonderful photos and memories of a life well-lived! With our deepest sympathy, Irene & Paul

CarolAlexson-Henn & Greg Henn

October 1, 2025 at 8:49 PM

Rita was a very special lady. She was always there to lend a helping hand. She will never be forgotten by her friends from St Paul's United,Thunder Bay. John, we will keep you & your family in our prayers. Carol

Gail & Ted Sorenson

October 1, 2025 at 4:57 PM

Our sincere sympathy to Rita's family. Rita and I (Gail) went all through elementary & high school together as well as 4-H. They lived just down the road from us. Some wonderfull memories.

Brenda Scott-Thomas (Baker)

October 1, 2025 at 10:31 AM

What a lovely picture of a wonderful, confident, generous and big-hearted woman, my Aunt Rita. I was so shocked to hear of her diagnosis and passing but upon reflection now, I have so much respect for her strength in how she lived her life and for when it was time to say goodbye. I have such fond memories of how she and my Uncle John made me feel, as an impressionable 12-year old, when I was invited to be a junior bridesmaid at their wedding, 45 years ago! It was a teenager's dream to be included in such an important life event and my Aunt Rita made me feel like 'one of the girls'. I will raise a toast to her with a cold glass of Pinot Grigio so I can feel a part of the celebration of her life tomorrow. Hugs to you Uncle John, Kristin, Jaimie and Lauren as you hang on to your memories and cherish that place in your heart that will always keep her close to you.

Sharon and Bernie van Kemenade

October 1, 2025 at 10:09 AM

Our sincere sympathy to Rita's family.

 

John Forrest

September 30, 2025 at 9:07 PM

Dear Mr. Swan, Lauren and family;

I am sorry your wife and mother has passed. I am sorry you have lost Rita.

I am thankful for Ms. Swan's volunteer work with Guatemala. A great memory I have is her greating me as I walked into St. Andrews (on the first Sunday after our trip to Guatemala). Her greating made me feel like a member of her family. I will remember the joy I felt.

Donna Cassels

September 30, 2025 at 4:28 PM

So saddened to hear of Rita's passing. Condolences to John, Kristin, Jaimie Lauren and families.

I have fond memories of Rita with her cool Duster, babysitting James, good times at the farm and of course the family reunions. You will be missed.

Jennifer Hogg

September 29, 2025 at 8:09 PM

Deepest condolences to John, Kristen, Jaimie, Lauren and family. Heaven gained another angel and I am sure my mom was waiting to give her a big hug.

Lorne Hurst and Elly Hoogterp

September 27, 2025 at 10:39 AM

We will always remember smile as she greeted us at St Andrew's.

Our sincere condolences to all of you.

Larry Slagerman

September 26, 2025 at 11:02 PM

Rita was in the same grade as my brother Dale in high school (he was sorry to hear of her recent passing). While in high school and then while working at DVL and MPI had just a few very short conversations as Rita would be busy. Condolances to the families.

James Sparling

September 26, 2025 at 1:40 PM

My condolences to Rita's sisters, her husband John, her children and family. She was born 11-days after me and I have a special bond with that. Always great memories of the 'farm' and family get togethers, I miss them and will miss her.

Brent Hanasyk

September 26, 2025 at 10:38 AM

My deepest condolences to the Swan family. Rita played an important role in my life as a mentor to the youth group at St Andrew's where I attended with Lauren. She was always graceful and understanding despite the trouble we caused as teenagers. Sending my love.

Debbie Griffiths

September 25, 2025 at 4:53 PM

Dear John & family. We are saddened to hear of Rita's passing. Rita & I were both part of the DDVL family. John & Rita were part of the group that enjoyed time at our cottage at Hillside Beach & good food & laughter at Gondola Pizza on Henderson Hwy. Who could resist her smile & joking around. We will cherish the memories. Hugs to you all.

Debbie and Roger Griffiths

Eldon Parkinson

September 25, 2025 at 3:58 PM

I remember Rita from the Divisionof Driver and Vehicle Licensing (DDVL) . All the DDVL staff were like members of a family and Rita was a valued member of that family . The DDVL family will miss her. Farewell Rita.

Ann McDowell

September 25, 2025 at 9:08 AM

It is with a heavy heart that I receive this news. Rita was one special gal and she will be greatly missed. Dear John, I will keep you and your family in prayer as you walk through all that lies ahead. Blessings and love in Him Who loved us first, Ann McD

Andrew Cassels

September 25, 2025 at 2:35 AM

So sad to hear this awfyl news. She was a lovely lady. Condolences to John, Joanathon, Jamie and Lauren from the UK Cassels clan.

Sarah Scott

September 24, 2025 at 8:49 PM

Rita was always so kind, giving and willing to lend a helping hand in any scenario! We bonded over a glass of Pinot Grigio and she will be dearly missed by our family and many! RIP Rita!

Gerry and Warren Bock

September 24, 2025 at 8:15 PM

Rita holds a special place in our hearts. Had some great vacations with her and John. Condolences to family.

Rick and Leslie Patterson

September 24, 2025 at 5:57 PM

Our deepest condolences to the Swan and Cassels families.

 

Rick and Leslie Patterson

Alexis Anderson

September 24, 2025 at 4:43 PM

Will always remember her smile and warm greeting as I entered church. She was a lovely lady.

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