Rita Claire Barchiesi-Shimek

Rita Claire Barchiesi- Shimek passed Thursday, May 30, 2024, at the age of 70, in her home in Dewey, Ariz. She was born in Johnstown, lived the majority of her life in Waynesburg, and retired to Dewey with her husband, Mike. Rita was a beacon of light wherever she was, with her big smile and charismatic personality. She had much love and kindness to share with her family and friends. Rita was a leader in her community who encouraged others, enjoyed social events, talking, laughing and playing games. Rita always put in 100% and had the gift to make people around her feel special. Her greatest joy was her granddaughter, "Grammy's little angel", Zoe Marie. Rita graduated from the University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown Class of '76, where she received a Bachelor of Arts - Cum Laude; Westmont Hilltop High School Class of '72, where she was involved in Glee Club, girls' basketball team, and girls' Athletic Association. Rita worked as a social worker and truly cared about people and our community. She worked hard to get services for those in need. She also put in hours of administrative duties for Barchiesi Specialty Woodworking and helped build her own house. As a wife and mother, she nourished love through her cooking and baking, was involved in all her kids' activities and always blew on booboo's. Hobbies and activities included gardening, sewing and crafts, swimming, golf, wood-turning, volunteer work, reading / book club, Social Services League, travel, dancing and bowling just to name a few. Rita loved to decorate for the holidays. Christmas was her favorite! She is survived by her husband, Michael B. Shimek; children, Rebecca Barchiesi, Chad Barchiesi (Karol Englebrecht), Todd Barchiesi (Erika Hall); grandchild, Zoe Englebrecht; along with sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews; and her beloved dog, Coco. A Memorial Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, August 10, in St. Ann Catholic Church, Waynesburg. A luncheon for family and friends will follow at 12 p.m. in The Grange, Carmichaels.