Anita M. Couture

RUTLAND - Anita M. Couture, 46, of 92 Maple Avenue, Rutland, formerly of Gardner, passed into the arms of her Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ on Thursday evening, July 16th in University of Massachusetts Medical Center, University Campus, Worcester, after a long illness. She was born in Gardner on November 4,1962, the daughter of Paul Y. and Carol I. (Haapaoja) Couture of Gardner, and had lived in Rutland since 1989. Anita grew up in Gardner and graduated from CAPS Educational Collaborative, Gardner at the age of 22. She was also a student at FLLAC in Fitchburg and for many years was a client at Seven Hills TWO in Worcester, where she enjoyed horticulture and community involvement opportunities. Baptized in Bethany Baptist Church, she loved her family and music. She was known for her cheery personality. In addition to her parents she leaves two brothers, Lt. Col. Steven P. Couture and his wife Jennifer of Fairview Heights, Illinois and Scott R. Couture of Gardner; seven nephews and nieces, Spec.4 Christopher Couture and his wife YouJung, Ashley Couture, Meagen Couture, Stuart Couture, Catherine Couture, Aimee Couture and Adam Couture, one great niece, Selena Couture and one great nephew, Christian Couture, as well as many cousins and dear aunts and uncles. Anita also leaves her housemates and dearly loved staff at her residence. Memorial services will be held Saturday, August 1st at 1 P.M. in Bethany Baptist Church, 72 Ryan Street, Gardner. The Rev. Dan Meiners and the Rev. James Hinds will officiate. A private graveside service will be held in the Massachusetts Veterans' Memorial Cemetery, Winchendon. There are no calling hours. Memorial donations may be made to Bethany Baptist Church, 72 Ryan Street, Gardner, MA. 01440 or to Anita M. Couture Memorial Fund, care of Fidelity Bank, 33 Main Street, Gardner, MA. 01440. The Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central Street, Winchendon is directing arrangements. www.stone-ladeau.com