October 12, 1945 - January 28, 2022
In loving memory ~
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our mother, grandmother, and sister, Viola Ward, after a lengthy and valiant battle with cancer. Viola was born on October 12, 1945 in St. Paul, Alberta. When she was 2 years old, the family moved to Port Alberni, where she lived for the entirety of her life.
Viola started her teaching career at Calgary Elementary School at the tender age of 20, and at 21, she married her high school sweetheart. In 1970, she paused her career to have her children, Michael and Kirsten. In 1983, she began her career at North Island College, initially teaching Adult Basic Literacy and English as a Second Language. She thrived in this role and spent the next 23 years teaching English and math at levels ranging from basic literacy to high school upgrading. She had a deeply felt love and respect for her job and the students with whom she worked. At her core, Viola was a teacher.
Viola loved being a grandma. She was a passionate gardener with a green thumb, and she spent countless hours working in and enjoying her beautiful yard. She was a great cook, a well-read and avid reader, someone who could not resist dancing to a great tune, and a world traveller. She was a faithful member of her church and volunteered for St. Vincent de Paul. Viola had boundless energy and remained extremely active with long, daily walks, aquafit, Tai Chi, and exercise classes, as long as her health allowed. She had a great sense of humour, a smile that lit up a room, and a gregarious and vivacious personality.
Viola was blessed with a close circle of friends who rallied around and supported her in countless ways throughout her lengthy battle, for which she and her family were most grateful.
Predeceased by her parents, Michael and Veronica Ziegemann; survived by her son Michael, daughter Kirsten, granddaughter Jenica, brother Dwight, plus many close friends and extended family.
She faced her diagnosis with strength and a determination to live until her very last day which were inspiring and humbling. She will be missed beyond measure.
A funeral mass will be held at the Holy Family & Notre Dame Catholic Church on Wednesday February 16th at 11am.
To leave a condolence for the family please visit www.chapelofmemories.ca
Arrangements in care of Chapel of Memories Funeral Directors
Chapel of Memories