Marietta "Rita" Rooks-Blackmore

It is with great sadness that the family of Marietta Rooks-Blackmore announce the passing at Eastholme-Home for the Aged (Powassan) on August 9th, 2022, at the age of 96 years. Rita was the loving wife of the late Frank Blackmore (passed in 1966) and the cherished mother to eight children: Michael Blackmore (Joady), Val Caven (Late Bill), Marlaine Bywater (Blair), the late Virginia Parks (late John), Marita Valyear (Max), Louise Cantin (Gerry), Maureen Blackmore (Carmen), and Vicky Pardy (Randy). 

She will be lovingly remembered by her 13 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and 2 great- great-grandchildren. Rita is predeceased by her parents Dr. Alfred Rooks and Marietta (nee Vignale).

Rita was quite the character. She had a zest for life and her sense of humor was infectious. She enjoyed going to the 406 Wing where she enjoyed a few cold ones (Blue Light), and where she loved spreading her charm. She would also do the crossword puzzles from the North Bay Nugget daily. Rita was extremely passionate about the Toronto Blue Jays, so much so, that she actually named one of her cats “Cito” after the former Blue Jays manager. She will be greatly missed by all the wonderful staff at Eastholme, who cared for her deeply. 

The family of Rita will be receiving visitors at McGuinty Funeral Home (North Bay)on Friday August 12, 2022, between the hours of 11am and 2pm.  A Celebration of life will follow at 2pm in the McGuinty Funeral Home Chapel. A private burial will occur at a later date at St. Mary’s Cemetery (North Bay).  In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada would be gratefully acknowledged by her family.  Online condolences can be made at www.mcguintyfuneralhome.com