Rita C. (Wiwatowski) Zawalich, 83, died peacefully on Friday morning, April 1, 2016 at Oakdale Nursing Center, West Boylston, where she had been so lovingly cared for over the past six years. She was born and raised in Worcester, a daughter of the late Paul and Caroline (Puzcka) Wiwatowski. Rita graduated from Commerce High School and then earned her nursing certificate from the David Hale Fanning Girls Trade School, Worcester. She worked as a licensed practical nurse at the former Worcester City Hospital for more than 20 years. Rita always enjoyed a good shopping trip and was continually on the hunt for the best bargain. She enjoyed sharing a good meal out with her husband, and together they were able to enjoy spending winters in Florida. Being with her family, especially her grandchildren in her later years brought Rita her greatest joy. Even through the health challenges she faced over the past dozen years, Rita continued to play an important role in the family. Constantly surrounded by family and supported with their love, especially her faithful and dedicated husband, Joe. Her parting from us leaves a void in our daily lives and deep in our hearts.

She will be forever missed by her beloved husband of 63, Joseph; her two cherished children, Joseph Zawalich and his wife, Barbara of Paxton and Diane Talancy and her husband, Randall of Shrewsbury; her four adored grandchildren, Matthew and Elizabeth Talancy and Daniel and Timothy Zawalich; and her brother, Thomas Wiwatowski and his wife, Joanne of Worcester.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Rita’s family on Monday, April 4, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 5, at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Columba Church, 18 Richards Avenue, Paxton. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to Alzheimer’s Association , 480 Pleasant Street, Watertown, MA 02472.