Rhea Cecelia Grab, 90, formerly of Ridge Road, North Haven passed away Thursday, December 29, 2011 at the Elim Park Baptist Home, Cheshire. Born in West Hartford on December 11, 1921; daughter of the late Anton and Theresa Zaehringer Grab. Rhea had worked for Hummel Brothers of New Haven until her retirement and was a former volunteer at the North Haven Library. Cousin of Stephen (Josephine) Zaehringer of Branford, Karl (Nancy) Zaehringer of North Haven, Herbert Zaehringer of Orange, Clem (Belle) Schuerlein of Long Island, NY.
Family and friends are invited to attend a mass of Christian burial on Tuesday morning at 10:00 in St. Rita’s Church, 1620 Whitney Ave., Hamden. Interment will follow in St. Lawrence Cemetery. There will be no visiting hours. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Newington Children’s Hospital, Newington, CT 06111.
Rhea was a special person who brightened the lives of many people that she came in touch with. She always had a smile, a kind word and was always willing to help others in need. She was an important part of my childhood growing up and that relationship grew to include my wife Nancy and our daughters Kristen, Elisa and Nicole. We will also never forget her chocolate chip cookies and butter cookies that she would often bake for us. We were all privileged to have known her. We will all miss you Rhea…….
I am so sad to hear about Rhea’s passing. She was such a good friend to my mom, Virginia, especially when my Mom lived in the room next to her. Rhea was always so positive, so proper but funny. I am going to miss seeing her sitting with Mary in the lobby when I come to visit my mom. Please accept my family’s sympathies in the loss of this wonderful lady.