Rita V. (Ouellette) Cloutier

AUBURN – Rita V. Cloutier, 93, of Lewiston, passed away on Friday, July 12, 2024 at the Hospice House.

She was born in Augusta on Feb. 12, 1931, the youngest daughter of Denis and Rosa (Castonguay) Ouellette and the fifteenth of 17 children, all born at home from 1908-1934. The family was originally from Caribou and eventually settled in Lewison.

Rita was married to Emile O. Cloutier on July 24, 1948; they were married for 68 years until his passing in 2016. They enjoyed many winters in Daytona Beach Shores, Fla. Rita loved going out with her daughter and nieces at Gipper’s on many Wednesday nights for over 20 years. She loved spending any time with her large family. Her interests over the years were bowling, golfing, playing cards, and dining out with her many girlfriends over the years.

Rita is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Sandra and Bruce Westleigh of Lewiston who made every effort to make sure she could remain in her home; her son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Jaquelyn Cloutier of Biddeford who regularly came to Lewiston to spend time with her. Spending the holidays and celebrating birthdays together meant so much to her. She leaves many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly. Rita and Emile were especially close to their nephew, Richard Cloutier of Waterboro.

Rita was predeceased by her parents; her husband; eight brothers and eight sisters (and their spouses), Gedeon (Marie), Emile (Rolande), Lionel, Lionel, O’neil, Conrad (Louise), Norman and Roger (Patricia) Ouellette. Laurenecia (Honorius) Miville (aka: Pat and Whitey), Aurore, Cecile (Leo) Cusson, Delcia (George) Warrington, Lillian (Gerard) Gagne, Jean D’Arc, Lorette (Ralph) Boucher and Aldea (Roland) Cloutier.

Mom, this is our way of paying homage to your entire family. You were a wonderful mom and were always there for us. We love you and miss you. Until we are with you again, Sandy and Bruce and Mike and Jackie.

Online condolences and fond memories of Rita may be shared at http://www.albert-burpee.com. Committal prayers will be held at St. Peter’s Cemetery at a later date.

Arrangements are under the care of Albert and Burpee Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 253 Pine St., Lewiston, 782-7201.

Those wishing may make donations in Rita’s memory to: Andwell Health Partners,

Hospice House Fund,

15 Strawberry Ave.

Lewiston, ME 04240