Rita Ann Bavineau, 90, of Victor, NY, passed away on January 18, 2024. Rita was born on July 9, 1933, in Rome, NY, to the late Lillian Urtz Misiewicz and Walter Misiewicz. She was preceded in death by her soulmate and husband of 65 years, Bill Bavineau and her sisters, Elaine Lo Presti and Mary Jane Misiewicz.
Rita was a loving and dedicated mother to her five children: Deb (Al) Wordingham, Jane (Dwayne) Bavineau-Wuneburger, Dan (Margaret) Bavineau, Judy (Mark) Weisseg, and Michael (Andrea) Bavineau. She adored her nine grandchildren: Brad DeCicco, Jon Wordingham, Aaron Wordingham, Jacob Musiol, Mackenzie Conway, Ryan Bavineau, Jaclyn Musiol, Ryleigh Bavineau, and Cal Bavineau. Rita was also blessed with four great-grandchildren: Macie, Maddie, Maddux DeCicco, and Sophia Wordingham. She is survived by her sister, Janet Harter, and her brother, Walter (“Unkie”) Masavage.
Rita was happiest when she was in a garden, picking berries for jams and pies, cooking someone’s favorite meal or dessert, giving a gift or simply just helping. Her Thanksgiving dinners, desserts and afghans are legendary providing so many of us with warm, wonderful memories. She never missed or forgot a birthday, anniversary, holiday or any special occasion in between. Always offering a gift and her time to anyone she met in need.
Rita dedicated over 30 years of her life to working at Sibley’s Department Store, also known as Kaufmann’s and Macy’s, at Eastview Mall in Victor, NY. She was highly regarded by her colleagues and customers alike.
In her free time, Rita was an active volunteer with Victor’s Garden Club, Sonnenberg Gardens, and the American Red Cross Blood Donations. She also served as an usher at St. Patrick’s Church as well as cooking for numerous funeral luncheons.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, January 26, 2024, at St. Patrick’s Church in Victor, NY. Following the burial at St. Patrick’s Cemetery, a luncheon will be held in the church hall. Contributions in Rita’s memory can be made to Sonnenberg Gardens or St. Patrick’s Church in lieu of flowers.
Rita Bavineau will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her warm and generous spirit touched the lives of many, leaving behind cherished memories and a legacy of giving and kindness.
Dear Bavineau cousins and families,
Your sweet mother was very kind to me when I was growing up. When I married Craig she snipped a piece of ivy from my wedding bouquet and planted it in her garden. She also embroidered a beautiful tablecloth for us that I still use to this day. We are thankful to have known her and we send you our sincere condolences.
Dianne (Stone) and Craig Russell
I’m sorry to hear of Rita’s passing. She was well loved at A Cut Away in victor for many years. She will be missed.
My deepest sympathy to all of Rita’s family We were great friends while she lived in Victor and even when she moved and we were involved in church activities. She asked me a couple of times to move to Macedon. I don’t recall ever seeing Rita when she wasn’t smiling. Wish I was physically able to attend her celebration of life but she will be in my prayers.
Our mother, Evelyn Bentley, was friends with Rita. They met at Kaufman’s and enjoyed working together and also taking some trips together. Please accept our condolances to your family for your loss.