Photo courtesy of Chambers Funeral Homes - North Olmsted
North Olmsted, Ohio
Jan 13, 1923 – Apr 2, 2020 (Age 97)
RITA W. MENDAT (nee Wasil), age 97, of North Olmsted, passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2020. Rita is preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Fred, and their son Ryne. She will be missed by her daughters Raemarie Curylo (Fred), Rene Phillips Joyce (Jim) and sons Randy (Ginger) and Rory. She was the proud grandmother of 6, great-grandmother of 7, dear sister of Lucille (Ron Phillips) and the late Mildred, Loretta and Raymond.
For 54 years Rita cared for Rory, her son with Down Syndrome. She was a strong advocate for the handicapped and was a proud active member of the Special Olympics. She was a person who embraced life and her love and dedication to family was unwavering to the end.
The family is especially grateful to the staff at Emerald Village and Holy Family for their tenderness of care for Rita.
Due to current health restrictions, a private family ceremony will be held. Friends and family will be invited to join the Mendat family for a Mass and Memorial Celebration at a later date. If desired, the family suggests contributions in her name to Special Olympics.
Read MoreDear Mendat Family,
I did not know of Rita’s passing up until now — and I was so saddened to hear the news. I have very fond memories of Rita during my years of visiting my Dad, Fred Maki, at Emerald Village. She and Rory were very kind and caring to my Dad and my family. My heart goes out to you all. Please know that I am keeping her and you in my prayers.
Linda Dzura & Family
Linda Dzura
October 24, 2020 | Moreland Hills, OH | Acquaintance
I taught with Rita my very first year teaching! (1974) Her positive, sweet & caring personality made us best friends forever.
Sweet dreams, Rita!
Oksana Olinek
Oksana Olinek
April 11, 2020 | Westlake, OH | Friend
Dear Mendat Family,
You are in my thoughts and prayers at this time. I will always remember Rita as a strong advocate for Rory with a great sense of style and humor. I truly enjoyed getting to know all of you.
Peace!
Kim Hummell
April 10, 2020 | Seven Hills, OH | Friend
Rest In Peace Rita! You were one of the most amazing women we have ever had the pleasure of knowing for so many wonderful years filled with ups and downs and you stayed strong to the end! You always made our family feel like we were part of your family! We all aspire to be like you! Prayers for all the families hearts to heal and know you all took wonderful care of Mom and she was blessed to have you and all the caregivers help through her golden years! She will always smile at you all from...
The Family
April 09, 2020 | Friend
To Rita's family: Your mom was such a kind, loving and remarkable lady, mother, and grandmother. My dad, Fred, had the pleasure of her friendship along with Rory for the 8 years that he lived at Emerald Village. I recently talked to Rita on the phone to wish her a happy birthday where she reminded me of all the good times she had talking about sports with my dad and she consoled me in my own grief over his passing a year ago. She and Rory were my dad's dinner & happy hour partners and mine,...
April 09, 2020
