Elda “Rina” Casey, 90, of Glendive, passed away Monday, June 12, 2017 in Glendive.
Per Rina’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service was held at 2 p.m. on Friday, June 16, 2017 at the Silha Funeral Home in Glendive with Reverend Avis Anderson officiating. Silha Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Rina was born March 16, 1927 in Monfalcone, Italy, a small village near Trieste to Giuseppe and Pasqua Visintin. She was the second of three children. Her older sister Carmella and younger brother Carlo preceded her in death.
After World War II, during the American occupation of Italy, she met and fell in love with an American soldier, James “Jack” Lloyd Casey. They were married in Italy. After the War, she came to America on a troop ship of soldiers and war brides.
For years they lived in several locations throughout the country from Tennessee to Chicago, Spokane and several towns in Montana. After they were divorced in 1959, Rina settled in Glendive with their three young children. Many will remember her from the twenty-five years she worked at the Jordan Hotel in the coffee shop and the Blue Room.
Rina was always informed about politics. Her strong desire to be able to cast a vote inspired her to complete the naturalization process. In 1980, with her children and grandchildren at her side, she took her oath of citizenship.
Rina loved crafting and gardening, but more than anything, she loved her family. She was a devoted mother not only to her children and grandchildren, but also to their friends. She loved to cook and in true Italian tradition, everyone was welcome at her table.
Rina always had a large circle of friends and will be remembered for her infectious laughter, playful teasing, and true love of life.
She is survived by her daughter Julie and her husband John Gormont of Glendive; her daughter Dixie and her husband Larry Hart of Livingston; and her son John Casey and his wife Kimm of Veneta, Ore.; her grandson Joshua Casey and his wife Maria, and their children, Mariah, Isaiah, Isaac, Patrick and Maria of Jamestown, N.D.; and her grandson Jason Hurning and his children Devon and Tyler of Livingston.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that you cook a big meal, surround yourself with family and friends, and raise a glass in her memory.
Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at: www.silhafuneralhomes.com.