Rita (Pietrangelo) Ross

Rita Ross (nee Pietrangelo) died peacefully at the age of 89 on October 5, 2018.

Rita was born to the late Thomas A. and Julia C. Pietrangelo on October 13, 1928 in Detroit, Michigan. She graduated from Patronage of St. Joseph High School, and while working in the local dime store she began a lifelong friendship with Margaret Ross-Galgoul, who introduced Rita to her younger brother Hugh.

Rita and Hugh danced into love at the Vanity Ballroom in Detroit. They were married on November 10, 1949 and continued dancing until Hugh’s death on June 29, 1998. Together they raised six children. Rita was predeceased by her daughter Margaret. She is survived by her children: William (Patricia), Rita, James, Hugh (Susan), and Thomas (Lisa). Rita is predeceased by six of her siblings and survived by her sisters Elaine Morse (Donald) and Marlene Bolduc (George) and brother-in law James Ross (Phyllis). Additionally, Rita is survived by 10 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and 33 nieces and nephews.

Rita’s kindness and love for her family were exemplary. People came to her for love and advice, which she gave generously along with her prayers. Her friends enjoyed swimming, playing golf, cards, and bunco with her. She played and made puzzles and colored pictures with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Rita was an accomplished cook and baker making countless meals and desserts for her friends and family. She had recently taken up stamping and enjoyed making custom greeting cards.

Rita was dedicated to and served her Catholic faith until the end of her life. Her devotion to the Blessed Mother Mary was steadfast. She was a member of Our Lady’s Rosary Makers and hand-tied and knotted no less than 40 rosaries a month for the last 10 years making about 5,000 rosaries.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 3rd at St. Kieran Catholic Church, 53600 Mound Road, Utica, Michigan, 48316. Instate at 9:30 am until a funeral mass at 10:00 a.m.

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