Rita Janet (Bajema) Epple

It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our mom, grandma, sister, and friend, Rita Janet Epple, on December 8, 2025, at the age of 77 in Bentley, Alberta.

Rita is survived by her children:

Tara Silverfox (Paul)

Robert (Tamra) Epple

Scott (Jil) Epple

Maralyn (Josh) Thompson

Her beloved grandchildren:

Tara – McKenzie (Sam), Dawson (Megan), Brady

Robert – Kelsey (Matt) Vredegoor (Kinlee and Berkley), Jackson (Phonex)(Hendrix), Haylee (Tatiana), Ainsley, Felicity, Quinn

Scott – Austin, Noah, Grayson (Maggie)

Maralyn – Aliza, Emily

Rita was predeceased by her husband of 32 years, Robert Bruce Epple; her brothers, James and Gerald Bajema; and her parents, Otto and Gertie Bajema.

Rita was born in Lacombe, Alberta, on September 27, 1948, the third of nine children. She spent most of her life in the Lacombe area, aside from an adventure to Ontario where she began her passion for nursing. It was there she met her beloved husband, Bruce, and started her journey into motherhood. In the 1970s, Rita and Bruce moved back to the Lacombe area, where they joined the family dairy farm.

Rita loved her children deeply and was endlessly proud of each of them. She celebrated their milestones, supported their dreams, and delighted in the lives they built. Her love for them was unwavering, and she carried that pride with her always.

Rita was ecstatic to become a grandmother. She was a proud and devoted “gramma,” embracing every opportunity to be part of her grandchildren’s lives—helping, teaching, laughing, and cuddling whenever she could. When distance kept her away, she enthusiastically turned to FaceTime, cheering them on from afar with the same warmth and joy.

Rita shared a special closeness with her sisters and sisters-in-law. Their group chat was a constant source of connection, laughter, and support, and the bond they shared ran deep. These relationships were a cherished part of Rita’s daily life.

Rita also found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved traveling to Mexico, soaking up the sunshine at beautiful resorts, and enjoying many lively games of Scrabble—often with a competitive sparkle in her eye.

When her children were grown, Rita returned to nursing at the Bentley Care Centre, a place she treasured deeply. She loved her work family, and they loved her. The bonds she formed there were genuine and lasting.

Rita will be remembered for her unwavering determination, boundless energy, quick laughter, beautiful smile, and generous, inclusive spirit. She was always ready to lend a hand, offer a listening ear, or share thoughtful advice. Her strong faith in God guided her life, and she hoped others would see His love reflected through her.

We take comfort in knowing she is at peace in her Heavenly Father’s arms, reunited with her beloved Bruce.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Woody Nook Christian Reformed Church. 

A Livestream of the service will be streamed at:

https://www.youtube.com/live/KDE3Q4nQt_w?si=wB85nOsFVGwNiW3a

 https://www.youtube.com/@woodynooklacombe/streams

A Graveside Service will take place the same day at 12:30 p.m. at the Woody Nook Cemetery.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rita Janet (Bajema) Epple, please visit our floral store.