1927 – 2015
LEWISTON — Rita L. Brushwein, 88, of Lewiston passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, Oct. 4, at her home.
She was born in Lewiston on March 31, 1927, the daughter of Wilfred and Evangeline (Bazinet) Lemay. Rita attended local schools in Lewiston. She married the love of her life, the late Philip Brushwein, on Feb. 7, 1948, and together they raised their family of eight children.
Rita and Phil loved to camp and would travel the state, camping at different locations throughout Maine. During the winter months, they became snow birds, spending the winters in Florida and summers in Maine. Rita loved to play bingo and knit, putting her talents to good work by making mittens and donating them to the local schools for the children. She especially loved her Wednesday girls’ day out with her daughters, nieces and whoever was able to join them.
Rita not only raised her eight children, but she also helped to raise her grandchildren and many of the neighborhood kids who would frequently be found spending time at her house.
She is survived by her three daughters, Karen and Gary Bazinet of Poland Springs, Nancy Derocher and Steven Weston of West Gardiner, and Kristine Brushwein and Stephen Beaudin of Lewiston; five sons, Keith and Kenzie Brushwein of Manchester, N.H., Philip and Mary Brushwein of Danville, Robert and Bonita Brushwein of Auburn, Gary and Cheryl Brushwein of Auburn, and Glen and Stephanie Brushwein of Auburn; several beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren; a sister, Lorraine Reed of Florida; a brother, Frederick “Bucky” Lemay of Texas; and many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband, Philip; three sisters, Rolande Clark, Georgette Brushwein and Dora Girouard; and two brothers, Richard and Robert Lemay.
You may offer your condolences to Rita’s family online at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.
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