Rita M. Heller, 94, of Cuyahoga Falls, passed away September 9, 2019 at Western Reserve Hospital.
Our family is so appreciative to the physicians, nurses and staff for their compassion.
Born in Akron, Ohio, Rita was a lifelong resident of the area. She graduated from Garfield High School and then received her Nursing degree from Akron General Hospital.
Rita met her future husband, Ray, before he departed for military service as an Army Medic in the European Theatre of World War II. Upon Ray's return, the happy couple was married in August of 1946. In August of 2019, the loving couple celebrated 73 years of marriage.
Rita and Ray were founding members of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish.
Her love for her Catholic faith and church provided for her volunteer services including participation in the IHM School Athletic Board.
Rita's roles of wife, mother and grandmother were of utmost importance and the focus of her life. Rita's
legacy to her children and grandchildren were the importance of faith, commitment to family and education. Always active, she shared her love of cards, swimming, water skiing, cooking and baking with all her family.
Rita was preceded in death by her brother, Dr. Roy Fanoni; and her identical twin sister, Rhoda Bolka.
All the family is happy to have Rita and Rhoda with each other again.
Rita is survived by her sister, Joyce Belock. Rita is also survived by her beloved husband, Ray Heller; her children, Diane (John) Fabre, Daniel (Sandy) Heller, Thomas (Julie) Heller, Nancy (Larry) Hilton, Kathy Heller and Steven (Kristan) Heller. Rita leaves the following grandchildren, Elizabeth, Emily, Megan, Molly, Davis, Susanna, Adam, Anne, Aaron, Rachael, Alyssa, Lauren, Micheal, and 14 great-grandchildren.
Calling hours will be held 5-8pm Friday, September 13 at Ciriello and Carr Funeral Home, 810 Portage Tr. Cuyahoga Falls, 44221.
Mass of Christian Burial 10am Saturday, September 14 at Immacualate Heart of Mary Catholic Church.
Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations should be made to the Fr McIntyre Education Fund at IHM, 1905 Portage Tr. Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223.
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