It is with the utmost sadness that the children of Dr. Rosalita Rojas (Aquino) Rideout, wife of the late Dr. David Arthur Rideout, announce the passing of their mother on May 10th, 2021 in Saint John, NB.  Born September 2nd, 1931 in Cavite City, Philippines, she was the daughter of the late Honourable Venancio Aquino and Marina (Rojas) Aquino. Rosalita was a loving and dedicated mother to her five children, Dr. Arthur Rideout (Mary), Michele Rideout (Daniel Curry), Karen MacDonald (Stephen), Dr. Andrea Rideout and Jason Rideout, and a devoted Lola to her beloved grandchildren, Maria, Ellie, James, Andrew, Jane, Thomas, Lauren and Caelan. Rosalita was predeceased by brothers Ceasar and Marcial, and survived by her brother Reynaldo and sister Teresita.

A graduate of University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Medicine and Surgery in Manila, Philippines, Rosalita initially went to the United States in 1956 to pursue her specialty in obstetrics and gynecology. She found her way to Saint John, NB where she met and married Dr. David Rideout.  Together they raised five children moving from Sussex, NB to Toronto, ON before finally settling down in Saint John.  Rosalita took time out from her medical career to focus her full attention and capabilities on raising her children, followed by an admirable and successful return to medical practice as a locum family physician. Rosalita was deeply appreciated by her patients and coworkers as an incredibly knowledgeable, dedicated and caring person. Her quick smile and joyous laugh endeared her to those fortunate enough to cross her path. We will all miss her straight forward, genuine approach towards life and heartfelt pearls of wisdom.

Rosalita loved to travel and managed to see a good portion of the world before her passing. Ever the lifelong learner, her many travels included visiting Machu Picchu, exploring tombs in Egypt, seeing Galapagos tortoises, walking volcanic rocks in Hawaii, a hot air balloon ride in Australia, walking to see a Glacier, seeing icebergs and caribou in Newfoundland and Labrador, and many more enjoyable adventures with her family and friends. She always encouraged her children to explore as many countries as possible, and wished the same for her grandchildren. Rosalita also loved gardening and providing beautiful plants and flowers for all to appreciate. Although forever bothered by the deer that ate her hostas, she greatly enjoyed hearing and seeing the colourful birds around her home. One of Rosalita’s greatest joys was feeding her loved ones both at home and while they were away, from handmade egg rolls to legendary care packages at university. She blessed us with many traditions, teaching us how to prepare lobster suppers and make pancit and fried rice the proper way. She welcomed every person who walked through her door with open arms and always had a seat at the table with more than enough delicious food waiting for them. Rosalita let her love and generosity shine through her food, which made it taste all the better and truly embodied the meaning of home.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Team Broken Earth (brokenearth.ca), Operation Smile Canada or a charity of your choice.

We are grateful to the staff at Shannex Millidgeville who took wonderful care of Rosalita, showing her kindness and consideration that she very much appreciated. We would also like to express an extra special thank you to Mom’s closest friends, colleagues and finally her neighbours of Bell Manor Drive, who all brought her so much love, joy and companionship.

In her passing, Rosalita would not want us to be sad for too long, but rather to celebrate, dance, and remember the happy moments.

“Always reach for the highest star and always keep going up, up, up!” ~Lola

[Due to the ongoing pandemic and travel restrictions, the family regrets that there will not be a visitation or service at this time. Condolences, memories or tributes can be sent to the family by visiting the online memorial at www.fundyfuneralhome.com. The memorial service and celebration of life will take place later this year when circumstances permit.]