Rita M. (Gardecki) Schweidenback, 78, of West Wareham died July 29, 2002 at Tobey Hospital in Wareham.

She was the wife of the late Harold Schweidenback, and daughter of the late John and Mary (Blaszczak) Gardecki.

Born and raised in Webster, she resided in New Bedford from 1946 to 1980, when she moved to West Wareham.

Survivors include a son, Dr. James Schweidenback of New Bedford; a daughter, Linda Phillips of Wareham; a brother, John Gardecki of Dudley; 5 grandchildren; and a great-grandson.

Funeral from the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New BedfordFriday, August 2, 2002 at 10 AM.Funeral Mass at St. James Church at 11 AM.Relatives and friends are invited to attend.

Visiting hours on Thursday, August 1, 2002 from 5-8 PM.

Interment will be in Rural Cemetery, New Bedford.