Rita Mavis Halpin, of Walkerton, formerly of Hanover, passed away at Brucelea Haven, on Monday, March 11, 2024.  She was 93.   Born in Windsor, Ontario, on January 26, 1931, to the late William and Mabel (nee Taylor) Potts.  Rita married the love of her life, Terence 'Terry' Halpin in 1953, and moved to the Hanover area over 50 years ago. Together they created a home that was family to eight children, several foster children, and many in need of a haven.  Rita was the driving force behind ‘the farm’ at RR 2 Elmwood, where there were adventures with horses and sheep along with many memorable gatherings.  

Many will remember Rita from her involvement with the Hanover Library Board, Walkerton Community Living, HARC, U-Need-Us Club, Chesley Saddle Club, and Scottish Country Dancing. Rita returned to teaching when the kids were older, and later took on administrative work at Terry’s law practice.  

Rita and Terry relished friendships and amused grandchildren at the cottage and the boat. She always had time for a horse show or trail ride. Rita’s greatest joy was her large family and staying involved with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Rita was a mentor to many. Wise and compassionate, warm and welcoming, sometimes a ham, she will be missed. 

Survived by children Pat (Colin) Perkel of Toronto, William Potts-Halpin (Sandra Blackman) of Ottawa, Mary (Dave) Lozowsky of Brampton, Bud (Jenny) Halpin of Port Elgin, Bernie Halpin of Meaford, Rob (Barb) Halpin of Durham and Teresa Halpin (Kevin Becker) of Chesley. Proud grandmother of 25 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren. Fondly remembered by many in-laws, nieces, nephews, and their families.  Predeceased by her husband Terry, daughter Susan Halpin, grandson Kevin Soper, brother Raymond Potts and sister Brenda Merlo. We are grateful to the staff of Brucelea Haven for their loving care of Rita over the past several years. 

Visitation will be held at Mighton Funeral Home, Hanover, on Thursday, March 21, 2024, from 5-8 pm. Visitation will continue on Friday, March 22, 2024 at Holy Family Church, Hanover, from 12 noon to 12:45 pm, where a Funeral Mass will follow at 1 pm. A private family interment service will follow in Holy Family Cemetery, Hanover. For those unable to attend the funeral mass, it will be live streamed via Holy Family Church (https://holyfamily.ca/media/).  

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Chalice Canada (www.chalice.ca/donate) or St. Vincent de Paul - Hanover would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.mightonfuneralhome.ca.