Rita Louise Gandolfo of Dearborn, Michigan, passed away peacefully at the age of 99 on Monday, February 16, 2026, at her home, surrounded by the love of her family near and far.

Rita was born on March 13, 1926, in San Martino, Italy, to Amabile and Attilio Lenardon. She was the youngest of six children. In 1935, she immigrated to America through Ellis Island aboard the Italian ocean liner Conte Grande. Her family settled in Dearborn, Michigan, where Rita would build a life rooted in faith, family, and enduring love.

While attending Fordson High School, Rita met her future husband, Vincent N. Gandolfo, also known as Jimmy. She was a sophomore and he was a senior. Their young love endured through Jimmy’s service in the United States Army during World War II, including his deployment to the Philippines. Upon his return home, they joyfully planned their wedding and were married on November 9, 1946. They celebrated with a grand Sicilian wedding — an all-day affair attended by nearly 800 guests — and honeymooned at Niagara Falls.

Rita was ahead of her time — an independent and forward-thinking woman. She began working in engineering at Montgomery Ward in Allen Park, Michigan, where she mastered the kitchen business, including drafting, design, estimating, and photography. Years later, she and Jimmy worked together in the kitchen industry at Big George’s Home Appliance Mart, where Rita flourished as a creative designer and kitchen specialist for nearly 17 years. They later returned to Dearborn to work at Allied Cabinets, where they remained until the company closed in November 1989. They retired together at the ages of 65 and 63.

Rita was emotionally intelligent, sensitive, and deeply encouraging to others. Her optimism, strong faith in the Lord, and joyful sense of humor inspired all who knew her. She poured unconditional love into her daughters and grandchildren, leading by example and nurturing her family with warmth and devotion.

Rita is survived by her daughters, Geralynn Gandolfo and Angela Gandolfo-Montesano (Paul Montesano); her cherished grandchildren, Michael Montesano (Alexandra Montesano) and Nicolas Montesano.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.”— Matthew 25:23

Visitation Friday, March 6, 2026 from 2-8 pm with a 6 pm rosary at the John N. Santeiu & Son Funerla Home, 1139 Inkster Rd., Garden City (between Ford and Cherry Hill). In state Saturday March 7, 2026 at 9:30 am until time of mass at the Church of the Divine Child, 1055 N. Silvery Lane, Dearborn, MI 48128.