Lawrence, Ma. – Rita I. (Endyke) Holak, 85, died Tuesday December 15, 2009 at the Mary Immaculate and Restorative Healthcare Center in Lawrence.
A lifelong resident of Lawrence, Rita was the daughter of John and Mary (Gage) Endyke. She was a graduate of Saint Patrick’s High School in South Lawrence, and also took secretarial courses in Boston and purchasing courses at Merrimack College.
Rita was an active communicant of Saint Patrick’s Church, and a member of Saint Patrick’s Ladies Sodality. For many years, she was the adult moderator for St. Patrick’s C.Y.O. and was actively involved in planning St. Patrick’s Cotillions. In recognition of her work with the parish youth, she received the National Award, the Pro Deo et Juventute Medal from the Archdiocese of Boston.
For many years she was a purchasing agent for Bolta Products/a division of General Tire and Rubber in Lawrence before her retirement. She was the first woman hired into a management position for General Tire and Rubber.
Among her many involvements, Rita was treasurer of the Lawrence Garden Club, and served on the executive board of the Bolta Generals.
The widow of Anthony S. Holak, survivors include her sons: Robert J. and his wife Susan M. Holak of Dover, NH, Richard A. and John M. Holak both of Lawrence, one brother Francis Endyke of Lawrence, and a sister Louise Karas of Rumford, Rhode Island, 9 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Rita was predeceased by her brothers John and Walter Endyke.
A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday morning at 9 o’clock in Saint Patrick’s Church South Lawrence with burial to follow in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in North Andover.
Friends are invited to pay their respects on Thursday from 2-4 PM and 7-9 PM at the Kenneth H. Pollard Funeral Home 233 Lawrence Street in Methuen.
Memorial contributions may be made to Central Catholic High School, 300 Hampshire Street Lawrence, Massachusetts 01841.