Rita Marie Gamache

Rita Marie Gamache was born on February 18, 1961, in Whittier, California. She peacefully passed away on May 27, 2025, in Brea, California, at the age of 64. She lived most of her life in Yorba Linda, a community she loved and where she made many lifelong friends. She passed away after a courageous battle with Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD), a rare neurological condition that progresses rapidly and currently has no cure. Rita was a truly special soul, known for her unconditional kindness, patience, and warmth. She had a remarkable gift for remembering important details about the people in her life—birthdays, favorite things, and special moments—and she showed her love through thoughtful gifts that made others feel valued and appreciated. Always friendly, inviting, and prepared, Rita was often the one to bring snacks or whatever was needed to make those around her comfortable. Her inner strength and calm presence shone through in everything she did. She could make friends anywhere she went and was always ready to help—whether through a small gesture or simply being present for those in need. To know Rita was to feel seen, loved, and comforted. Rita was a devoted wife to Bill Gamache, with whom she shared 44 years of marriage. She was a loving mother to her daughters, Nicole and Lauren, and a proud grandmother to Emma, who brought immense joy to her life. Rita also had a special place in her heart for animals, especially dogs and cats, and her love for her grandpets was a constant source of happiness. She is survived by her husband, daughters, mother Marian Meo, and her sisters Diane McDonnell and Sharon Hutchins. She was predeceased by her father, William Meo. For 26 years, Rita dedicated herself to the Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District, serving in several roles over the years, including as a Resource Specialist Aide (RSP) and Expanded Learning Aide. Rita helped shape the lives of countless students with her steady presence, compassion, and belief in their potential—leaving a lasting impact on those she worked with. Beyond her work, she was an active member of the community, volunteering when she could and always eager to lend a helping hand. From an early age, Rita’s faith was rooted in the Church of Jesus Christ. The church was a foundation of strength, love, and guidance for her, and she lived her life grounded in those principles of faith, service, and compassion. Despite the many challenges life brought, Rita’s resilience and love never wavered. She was the heart of her family—a source of strength, kindness, and unwavering support. Her legacy is one of boundless love, quiet generosity, and genuine kindness that touched all who knew her. Rita’s spirit lives on in the countless lives she enriched with her thoughtful, caring presence. We carry her love with us, always

Tributes

Rita Marie Gamache

February 18, 1961 - May 27, 2025