AUBURN — Rita G. Chretien, 89, of 297 Randall Road in Lewiston, and formerly of Begin’s trailer park in Sabattus, where she lived for 32 years, passed away early Sunday morning, June 19, at the Hospice House, with family at her side.

She was born in Black Lake, P.Q., Canada, July 6, 1921, a daughter of Thomas and Clementine (Poulin) Lessard. She was educated in local schools and remained a lifetime resident of this community.

On May 10, 1947, she was married to Rene Chretien, who predeceased her on April 28, 1999, following 52 years of marriage. She worked many years in the shoe manufacturing industry until her retirement. She was a member of the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. Her most enjoyable times were spent with her family and grandsons. One of the greatest joys she experienced in her life was the birth of her great-grandson, Cole, who had the ability to bring a smile to her face every moment that they were together. She also enjoyed her weekly luncheon get-togethers on Wednesdays at McDonald’s with her nieces, Jackie and Claudette, and friends. She was a loving, devoted and hardworking wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who will be dearly missed.

She leaves her son, Roland Chretien and his wife, Connie, of Lewiston; three grandsons, Jason Chretien and wife, Melissa, of Bath, Dr. Kevin Chretien of Caen, France, and Mark Chretien and wife, Jillian, of Auburn; a great-grandson, Cole Chretien; and a great-granddaughter, soon to be born in August; a sister, Doris Bureau of Lisbon; many nieces and nephews; and a longtime and special friend, Shirley, with whom she enjoyed many hours of friendship and conversation.

Rita was predeceased by her husband, Rene Chretien; and six sisters, Bernadette Gaudette, Corrinne Jacques, Jeanne Perron, Juliette Chasse, Therese Samson and Gertrude Samson; six brothers, Ovide, Gerard, Martin, Philippe, Frejus and Armand Lessard.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Jeffrey Brown and staff, Dr. Oscar Cabatingan and staff, and Dr. Roger Austin and all staff at both Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice and the Hospice House for their care, compassion and support given to Rita and her family during her illness.

You are invited to share your thoughts, condolences and fond memories with Rita’s family by visiting their online guestbook at www.thefortingrouplewiston.com.