MICHIELSEN, "Rita" Maria Elisabeth (nee van der BIJL)

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Rita Michielsen on July 11 ^th , 2022 at Peterborough Regional Health Centre after a short battle with cancer, in her 74 ^th year.  Beloved wife of Peter C. Michielsen for over 52 years.  Mother to Arthur, his wife Sarah, Oma to their daughter Jasmine.  Mother to Derek, his wife Shannon, Oma to their son Lucas.  Rita is the daughter of the late Wilhelm and Catharina van der Bijl.  She is survived by her siblings: Agnes, Jan (Lucia), Ebba (Wim), Cornelius (Joke), Peter (Sanja), Ina.  She is predeceased by her siblings Wim (Wilhelmina), Gerard (the late Cisca) and Anna (Josephine)-all of The Netherlands. Sister-in-law of Trudy Michielsen (the late John), Gail Michielsen (the late Adrian), Bill and Judy Michielsen, and Liz and Doug Mayes-Michielsen. Rita came to Canada from The Netherlands on a youth program as a 19 year old.  The intention was to stay for a year and return, but she stayed.  While living in Toronto, she became the first female manager of a Coles Book Store. Later she obtained her Real Estate License, and sold real estate for over 25  years.  Rita was an avid weaver, something she enjoyed and excelled at for the past 48 years. She is also known for her egg cup collection of some 3000.  Volunteering was another passion, as a Beaver, Girl Guide, and Cub Scout leader.  For the past 15 years, she and her husband Peter have been active volunteers at St. Joseph's at Fleming Long Term Care Home.

Visitation at DUFFUS FUNERAL HOME, 431 George Street South, from 12 noon to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, July 19, 2022. A Celebration of Rita's Life will be held in the DUFFUS CHAPEL on Tuesday, July 19, 2022 at 1 p.m.  Reception to follow. Private family inurnment at Little Lake Cemetery. In memory of Rita, donations to St. Joseph's at Fleming Foundation would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be made at www.duffusfuneralhome.com