It was with great sadness in our hearts that we said good-bye to our precious mom and nana on Sunday, May 17th in her home of 58 years. Mom’s journey with her illness was travelled with great strength and hope, and was sustained by the phenomenal love of her family and her faith. She was born in Fernie on March 11, 1930 to parents Michael and Maria Amantea. She was the youngest of 8 children, and was called “Honey” by her siblings who adored her. Violet was predeceased by the love of her life, Leslie Minifie. She was very much loved by her children Cathy Borggard (Russell), Vincent Minifie (Carol), and Carol Gourley (Bob). She was a devoted and loving Nana to Joal Borggard (Linda), Alana Rybar (Roman), James Minifie (Samantha), Brian Minifie (Allyson), Darren Minifie (Heather), Alicia Levin (Jordan), Megan and Liam Gourley. Her time with us blessed her with nine precious great grandchildren whom she adored: Samual and Gabriella Rybar, Nova and Varden Borggard, Jordan, Corbin, Lowell and Carlisle Minifie, and Sayer Minifie. She considered her children and their families her blessings from God, and even in her final days her greatest concern was “will you all be OK if I go”?
Violet attended the Catholic School for her elementary years, then transferred to Fernie Secondary in grade 8 until graduation. Here she met her high-school sweetheart, Leslie, and so their love story began. They were married on July 20, 1951, and choose to continue to make Fernie their home. They were devoted and loving parents who raised their children as if they were the greatest gifts bestowed upon them. As well as nurturing and raising her children, Violet began full time work with Human Resources, when Carol the youngest started school. Her co-workers became her second family. She received great satisfaction from this work as she could be involved in helping others, which she did with passion. Violet was a caring and gentle soul who saw the good in everyone. Her greatest joy was feeding and taking care of all “her kids”, and anyone who came to her home. She loved to make sure everyone was fed and happy! Up until 2 months before her passing she was still putting on a pot of spaghetti sauce to feed someone. Family, friends, and new friends were always welcomed with hugs and something to eat. Violet received great joy from loving and being with people. As well as being “our social butterfly”, she loved to sing, and was a member of her church choir for most of her life. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the many caring and compassionate doctors, nurses and caregivers who gave Mom / Nana the greatest care during her challenging journey. Prayers were held on May 24 at Holy Family Church with funeral mass following on May 25 with Rev. Father Marcel Cote Celebrant. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Violet’s name to: Friends for Friends or to the charity of the donor’s choice. Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.cherishedmemoriesfs.com. Arrangements entrusted to Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd.