Rita M. (Croteau) Belanger, 92, of High St. died Sunday, Jan, 16 in Radius Healthcare. Her husband Ernest Belanger died in 2002.

She leaves two sons Paul Belanger of Southbridge, and his wife Gail; Robert Belanger of Sturbridge, and his wife Margaret; three daughters Susan Curran of Ellenton, FL and her husband Richard; Francine Martel of Southbridge and her husband Bernard; Yvette Belanger of Southbridge, 10 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and one great great grandson.

She was predeceased by her son Ronald Belanger, two granddaughters, Kirsten Anderson, and Kristen Curran, her sister Evelyn Croteau, and two brothers, Edward and Frank Croteau.

Rita was born in Waltham, the daughter of Francois and Emma (Legere) Croteau and lived here most of her life. She retired from the American Optical Co. in 1980.

She was a member of Sacred Heart Parish where she worked the Bingo’s and was instrumental in the CCD program. She also sang in the parish choir. She enjoyed her family, walking, and her friends at the Hospital Spa. She was the oldest cancer survivor in the Tri community area and was recognized at the Relay for Life Walks in Southbridge.

She will be remembered for her sense of humor and caring for other people.

Her funeral will be Thursday, Jan. 20th, from the Belanger-Bullard funeral Home 51 Marcy St. Southbridge, with a procession to Sacred Heart Church, Charlton St. for a 10:00am Mass.

Calling hours are from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Wednesday, Jan. 19th, in the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen St. Framingham, MA. 01701.