Obituary of Violet (Vi) Louise MOSTOWICH (nee Coles)

October 21, 1927 - Mayerthorpe, Alberta

May 26, 2021 – Calgary, Alberta

Violet (Vi) Mostowich of Calgary, AB, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 26, 2021 at the age of 93 years.

Vi was born on October 21, 1927, the youngest of six children, to Alberta homesteaders, Thomas and Mary Coles. Courage, determination, and humour in the face of a challenge were the keys to Vi’s inimitable personality. Growing up humbly during the Great Depression, she left home to become a nursing aide after the war and married Arthur, a hard-working scion of the Depression. Vi buckled down and stepped up to meet whatever came her way without kvetching, and managed to raise six successful children in Calgary. She was always ready with a friendly jibe and a generous hand. Vi gave freely to her community; as a Girl Guide leader, running dialysis machines, providing crafts for community fundraisers or canvassing for charity. On baking days, a gaggle of neighbourhood kids would loiter outside the kitchen in hopes of scoring a hot, fresh bun. She had a clear-eyed approach to life, grounded and resolute whatever came her way. She was curious with an artistic eye and unclouded spirit. In later years Vi became a talented potter and folksy painter; skills added to a myriad of artisanal skills that she expanded after moving to Camrose upon Art’s retirement. She loved gardening and walking. Vi adored her thirteen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, never passing up an opportunity to cuddle a baby. She returned to Calgary for her twilight years. She led a good life and is deeply missed by her family.

A Memorial Service is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, October 23, 2021, in Calgary, AB. For details, please go to the “Remembering Vi” Facebook group page or email jdmostowich@gmail.com. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Vi’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com.

In living memory of Violet Mostowich, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.