Rita R Heydens

February 2, 1933 - May 3, 2015

Rita R. Heydens, age 82, of St. Clair, died peacefully at home on Sunday, May 3, 2015. She was born to the late Sophie & Joseph Wojtysiak on February 2, 1933 in Hamtramck, MI. She married Robert (Bob) Heydens, the day after her 18th birthday, on February 3, 1951. In her earlier years you would find her on duty as “Lunch Lady” at Gearing Elementary School and also working at St. Mary’s Catholic School in the library. She was a member of St. Mary’s Parish in St. Clair, belonging to their Rosary Altar Society and teaching catechism from grades 1-8. Retirement found her and Bob wintering in Ft. Myers, FL. She liked to swim and read and her greatest passion was caring for her family. Rita is survived by her husband of 64 years, Bob Heydens, along with their children; Sue (Bill) Karas, China Twp., Nick (Tina) Heydens, East China Twp., son-in-law Michael Raymond, Port Huron and daughter-in-law Paula McDade (Heydens), Mount Pleasant. She spoiled and loved 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. She was also survived by a sister, Bette (Ken) Trieber, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a son, Paul R. Heydens, daughter, Judith M. Raymond, and her brothers, Raymond Watts and Richard Wojtysiak. Her family would like to thank all of her wonderful caregivers over the last few years. Their love, compassion and support was invaluable to her family. Visitation Wednesday from 4-8 PM in the L.C. Friederichs & Son Funeral Home, with rosary at 7:30 PM. In state Thursday at St. Mary's Catholic Church, St. Clair from 11:30 AM till mass at 12 noon. Burial in St. Mary's Cemetery. Memorials to the playground fund for Legacy Filed of St. Clair Little League. Arrangements by L.C. Friederichs & Son.