Rita T. (Torres) Valdez

Rita T. Valdez, 84 years old, peacefully passed away Monday, February 19, 2024 surrounded by her family at her residence in South Bend, IN.

Rita was born on March 10, 1939 in Brownsville, TX to the late Gavina Torres. Rita was also preceded in death by her sisters, Emilia Canul and Julia Roa; and her brother, Armando Canul.

Left to cherish the memory of Rita is the love of her life, Jesus Valdez; daughters, Hazel Salinas and Norma L. (Ramon) DeLeon; sons, Guadalupe Salinas, Ernesto Gaytan, David Gaytan, and Christobal Gaytan; 24 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

Rita loved bowling, playing softball, doing puzzles, dancing and singing, going to the casino and playing bingo. She specifically loved playing Mexican Chalupa with her family. Rita also loved watching action movies and shows – especially ones with Chuck Norris, Steven Seagal and Jason Statham. Above all, Rita loved spending time with her family. She loved having cookouts, spending as much time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and reminiscing with her friends. She will be missed by all.

Visitation for Rita will be from 4:00pm-7:00pm Thursday, February 22, 2024 at St. Joseph Funeral Home, 824 S Mayflower Rd, South Bend, IN 46619, with a prayer and time of sharing to start at 6:00pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will start at 10:00am Friday, February 23, 2024 at St. Casimir Catholic Church, 1302 W Dunham St, South Bend, IN 46619. Burial will immediately follow at St. Joseph Cemetery in South Bend, IN.

Online condolences can be made at sjfh.net.

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