Rita Temes

Rita E. Temes (Sonko), of Wayne, New Jersey, passed away peacefully and went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, January 7,  2026, at the age of 83, with the comfort of her loving family by her side. Rita was born on May 27, 1942, in Elmira, New York  to the late Irene Polachek and Lee Sonko. They moved to New Jersey when she was a pre-teen and spent most of her life in Wayne, NJ.  She was predeceased by her beloved sister, Marcia, and her brother, Lee.

Rita graduated from Boonton High School and went on to attend business school. She enjoyed a long and successful career as a sales representative for the Mars, Wrigley Jr.  Company and later in the pharmaceutical industry.

A devoted and loving mother and grandmother, Rita’s greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her three children: Wendy Sabino and her husband Justin; Craig Temes; and Bart Temes.  She was a cherished grandmother to Alexa and Arianna Sabino; Tiffany and Craig Temes; and Jenelle Temes, all of whom brought her immense pride and happiness. she also has family in Pennsylvania.

Rita had a passion for gardening and decorating, and her favorite pastime was shopping.  Rita was an awesome cook and even a better baker . She was constantly making home cooked meals for everyone.  She baked for every holiday and on weekends making her signature Hungarian desserts.   She enjoyed reading, which was one of her favorite pastime hobbies -especially if it was a  good mystery novel. Above all else, spending time with her family and grandchildren brought her the greatest excitement and joy. She especially loved family vacations to the Jersey Shore, which held a special place in her heart and created memories that will be treasured forever.

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In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rita’s memory to the Wayne Memorial First Aid Squad, PO Box 2004, Wayne, NJ 07474, whose compassion and dedication were always there to help her.