1925 – 2013

RUMFORD —  Rita P. Towle, 88, of Rumford, passed away peacefully at Rumford Hospital on Wednesday, Sept. 11, with loving family at her side.

She was born in Rumford on June 7, 1925, a daughter of John R. and Flora (Toupin) Paradis.

Rita was a graduate of Stephens High School Class of 1943 and Mercy Hospital School of Nursing Class of 1946, where she was a member of the U.S. Cadet Nurse Corps. She was a registered nurse on the surgical floor at Rumford Community Hospital from 1964 to 1983.

She was a communicant of Parish of the Holy Savior, a member of the Daughters of Isabella and Horizons 55. Rita was a volunteer for Androscoggin Home Health Services, the Hope Association, WOWS, Rumford and Dixfield Senior Citizens and the Rumford Community Home.

The most important things in Rita’s life were her family, church and her nursing career.

Rita was an avid reader who also enjoyed doing the crossword puzzles and was always challenging her mind.

Surviving are a daughter, Martina “Marty” Towle of Rumford; three grandchildren, Dawn Towle White and husband, Wayne, of Wash., Patricia Towle of New York, Jennifer Towle Davis and husband, Jason, of New York; six great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and one niece, three nephews and their families.

She was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Archer “Bud” Towle; a son, James “Jim” Towle; and three sisters, Janet Venskus, Doris Gaudin and Claire Stiles.

She was lovingly cared for in her last days at Rumford Hospital by some of the very nurses and nurses’ aides who worked with her over the years.

The family would like to thank Dr. Deluca and the of the nurses and nurses’ aides that gave her and her family exceptional care during her final days.

Finally, thank you to an aunt who was part of a family that lived, loved, played and helped her to take that final journey with love. May the next generation continue down this road of “Family.”

You are invited to share your thoughts, condolences and fond memories with the Towle family by visiting their guestbook at www.SGThibaultFuneralHome.com.