Rita J. Barbush

Poland - Rita J. Barbush died tragically on August 4, 2024 when she was hit by a car in Poland on Route 224 in front of her home. 

She was born December 6, 1936 in Youngstown, a daughter of the late Michael J. and Mildred Myers Onderko. 

In 1959, Rita Onderko and another colleague were chosen as Miss Savings Bond during the Savings Bond Week campaign while working as clerks for the G. M. McKelvey's store in downtown Youngstown. She later became a horse trainer for over 20 years. 

Rita was an icon to many in the Poland area as the 87-year-old lady who meticulously maintained her immaculate yard. She was known for decorating for every holiday and season. She worked effortlessly picking up every leaf and pulling every weed for hours and hours no matter what the weather was like. 

She became a fixture on 224 as people walked or drove by her home. Many said on Facebook that they didn't know her personally, but they knew her. 

Rita being an extreme extrovert made many lasting friendships. Many would visit her on a regular basis. Her sister, Kathy, was very close to Rita even though they disagreed on certain things. Rita was very strong willed and opinionated but many loved her for that quality. She constantly praised her sister to everyone she knew. In exchange, Kathy admired her creative and artistic talent at decorating and making flower arrangements. She was also a gourmet cook. 

Some referred to Rita as Poland's kind grandmother who loved spending time with people who became her dear friends. 

Laura Welch, who moved here from Texas, called Rita her adopted grandmother and became one of her most treasured friends. She would help her in the yard after working at Poland Village Assisted Living, formerly Sunrise of Poland. Even after Rita's passing, she goes to her home and is doing the cleanup of leaves and pulling weeds because that is her way of honoring her dearest friend. She described Rita as God's caretaker on earth. 

Rita's family was overwhelmed by the response of the community after Rita's sudden death. Tammy Marino and many others organized a vigil on August 7th at Rita's home with Fr. Martin Celuch of Holy Family Parish officiating. There were balloons, tributes, and flowers everywhere. The group designed a large heart made out of flowers and a poster decorated creatively with Rita's picture on it. It was a sight to behold. Even Poland Giant Eagle donated flowers for the event which was very much appreciated. 

Rita's only son, Michael, was her reason for living. Michael was cherished and adored by her. He was always doing things for her no matter what she needed. He also was amazed that she could play piano by ear which means she did not need music. 

Neighbors said her kind spirit was an understatement and would miss seeing her working hard in her yard. 

Rita will always be remembered as the little elderly 87-year-old lady that beautified a piece of earth in the Poland community. 

God no doubt will put her in charge of heavens' flowers and greenery.

Rita leaves behind to hold on to her precious and unforgettable memories her beloved son, Michael; her sister and brother-in-law that she loved dearly, Donald and Kathleen O. Markovich. 

Besides her parents, Rita was preceded in death by her former husband, Charles Barbush, who passed away on October 23, 2015; and two sisters, Dorothy Onderko and Gail Onderko. 

There will be a private service at Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home, 270 N. Main Street in Poland with Vicar Audra Franley of Prince of Peace Church officiating. There are no calling hours. 

The family is requesting that material tributes take the form of contributions to Animal Charity of Ohio, 8469 Southern Blvd, Building 3, Boardman, OH 44512 or to Angels for Animals, 4750 W. South Range Rd, Canfield, Oh 44406 in memory of Rita. 

Please visit www.beckerobits.com to share memories and condolences with Rita's family.