Rita Leda Sweeney

In loving memory of Rita Leda Sweeney of Brimley, Michigan. She peacefully passed away December 11, 2022, at the age of 95. She was born on November 12, 1927, in Sudbury, Canada to Darius and Louise (Deault) Chartrand.

Rita is survived by her children, Paul Sweeney of Brimley, Denise Sweeney of Brimley, and Michelle (Ken) Curry of Sault Ste. Marie; grandchildren, Roger, Lisa, Ashley, Alyssa, and Aubree; and great grandchildren; Aliya, Arianna, Landon, Lizabeth, and Harper.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dennis Sweeney; parents, Darius and Louise Marie Chartrand; and her siblings, Evelyn, Maurice, Cecile, and Alfred.

Rita was a retired Registered Nurse from WMH. She loved gardening, reading, sewing, and shopping. She lived and adventurous life coming to the U.S. from Canada as a young adult. She obtained her nursing degree and worked as an anesthesiologist.

In the mid 50’s she obtained her pilots license and had owned two airplanes. She enjoyed flying around Michigan and meeting friends for lunch. Once she accidentally found herself flying in military airspace and was escorted by military planes down to the runway. A story she enjoyed sharing.

She then met her husband and moved to the U.P. to raise their family. She grew wonderful gardens and loved growing unique plants for our area such as lemon trees. She loved to sew and could throw anything together without even a pattern. She loved music and played the violin and piano very well. She spoke fluent French and would love talking with her family in her native language.

She lived life to the fullest and will be greatly missed by many.

A graveside service will be held in the spring at the Mission Hill Cemetery and will be announced by Clark Hovie Galer Funeral Home. Clark Hovie Galer Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Rita Leda Sweeney please visit our Sympathy Store.