CLINTON – Rita L. Rediker, 86, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Tuesday, April 12, 2022 at Lakewood Continuing Care.

Rita was born on June 26, 1935, in Waterville, one of 11 children of the late Fortunat and Julia Poulin. Rita attended Saint Francis Catholic School in Waterville until moving to Clinton in 5th grade. She left Clinton High School at the age of 15 to help support her mother and siblings. Rita spent 43 years working at the Hathaway shirt factory, always paying attention to even the smallest detail.

In 1955, she reunited with her childhood friend, Archie “Bob” Rediker and they married a year later. Together they built a life in Clinton and in 1964 built their dream home, which they have never left to this day. She was meticulous in keeping up her homes in Maine and Florida, always making sure they were welcome and ready. She opened her home to many family members for a quick meal or to stay for a time, always making sure that family never went without.

In 1970 they were graced with their only child, Jeffrey, whom they loved and spoiled unconditionally. Rita enjoyed spending time at their lake cottage on Unity Pond, as well as her winter home in Zephyrhills, Fla. Rita and Bob turned into social butterflies during their retirement years and met many lifelong friends in the process. People saw them daily walking hand in hand and they were known as the “lovebirds.” Rita and Bob were blessed with 65 years of wonderful marriage and she was loved by all that knew her.

In addition to her loving husband Bob, she is survived by her son, Jeffrey and his husband Michael Hollander of Clinton. Rita also leaves behind her sister that was like her own daughter, Elaine Gurney, her sisters-in-law Ellen Moody, Beryl Nutt, Barbara Poulin, Betty Poulin and brother-in-law, Roy Gross. In addition, Rita cherished her numerous nieces, nephews, and their families.

In the last few months Rita had lost two brothers, Walter Poulin and Roland “Gus” Poulin. Rita was predeceased by her siblings Wallace Poulin, Evelyn Myshrall, Jeannette Gross, Norman Poulin, Fernand Poulin, Richard Poulin and Olivette Zieminski.

Visiting hours will be from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 21, at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield. A mass of Christian burial will take place at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 22, at Notre Dame Catholic Church in Waterville. Burial will be in the late spring.

Arrangements are under the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield, ME 04937.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in memory of Rita Rediker, to:

Maine Children’s Home,

93 Silver St.,

Waterville, ME 04901

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