Shrewsbury – Rita G. (Cournoyer) Dellomo, 89, of Shrewsbury, passed away at home Sunday, April 13, 2014, with her family gathered by her bedside, joining her husband George in heaven.
Rita was born in Worcester, one of seven children of Joseph and Louise (Neiderberger) Cournoyer. She attended Worcester public schools and married the love of her life, George “Chucko” Dellomo. They settled in Worcester to raise their family. In 1963, at the young age of 38, George unexpectedly passed away, leaving Rita with two small children. She then raised her children with strong will and dedicated devotion by herself, keeping her home, and earning a living until retiring in 1993. She then moved to Francis Gardens in 1999, where she made many friends and lived ever since.
Rita worked for the Crowne Linen Company for many years before retiring in 1993. She previously worked for Economy Distributors and Kings Department Stores. Rita was also a member of the Buttonwood Stables Auction house family in Shrewsbury, working part-time alongside her sisters.
Rita is survived by the family she dedicated her entire life to, her son, George Dellomo Jr. and his wife Barbara (Larson) of Brookfield, and her daughter, Janice Lucia of Shrewsbury; the three grandchildren she adored, Melissa Dellomo, Cresida Goff, and John Dellomo; seven great-grandchildren; a sister, Barbara Gaulin; two sisters-in-law, Pauline Hayes and Carol Dellomo; and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. Rita was predeceased by two brothers, Joseph and William Cournoyer, and three sisters, Mary Reil, Irene Carito, and Mildred Cassano.
Rita loved to cook, garden, and watch the Red Sox. She loved Elvis and was an enthusiastic collector of Elvis memorabilia.
Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours Wednesday, April 16, from 4 – 7 p.m., in the Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation St., Worcester. Her funeral service will be held Thursday, April 17, at 11 a.m., in the funeral home. Burial next to her husband will follow in Notre Dame Cemetery.
Memorial remembrances in her name can be made to the Be Like Britt Foundation, PO Box 355, Rutland, MA 01543. www.belikebritt.org.
