VIIDA BURNETT

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VIIDA BURNETT On Friday, November 21, 2008, Viida Burnett, passed peacefully, at the Oncology Department of the Victoria Hospital, at 87 years of age. She had a fantastic life that touched all that ever met her, but selfishly we did not want to see her go. Remaining to forever cherish Viida's memory are her three children, Reid (Marilyn Little), Viida (Murray) and Kim (Jim); seven grandchildren, Craig (Coralee), Carly and Riley (deceased); Reid, Scott (Deb) and Tara; Kristee and Kurtis; as well as, two great-grandchildren, Odin and Genevieve. She was predeceased by her parents, George and Hilda Thomasberg; an infant sister; her brother, Balder Thomasberg, lost his life in the Second World War, at the age of 21; and Harvey Burnett, the love of her life, left us in 1983, after a battle with cancer. We feel a new emptiness in the world without her. Until her final moments, with her family by her side, she carried herself with unwavering grace and a classiness that we fear will never be seen again. Viida was born March 8, 1921 in Tallin, Estonia. She was a talented artist who painted many pictures throughout her life, but her modesty would never allow her the praise that she truly deserved. Her love of animals was complimented by the numerous dogs and countless cats spread throughout the family. She was a long standing member at the Elmhurst Golf and Country Club, where she enjoyed her summers golfing. Winters were spent in Destin, Florida where she continued her passion for the sport. She was especially fond of her time at the cabin each summer, spending time in between two family cottages on Brereton Lake. Her final winter was spent in Calgary, at her daughter Kim's, where all she could talk about was how pleased she was with the weather. Grandma, Gammy, Big G, was one of the greatest sports you could ever ask for. This was due to the incessant ribbing that she endured from us, but most notably from her two sons-in-law, Jim and Murray. Her giggles had a way of lighting up a room the same way that her vivid blue eyes would. She was a true lady, right to the end of her days. We love you and miss you so much. Respecting mom's wishes, no formal funeral service will be held. A private family graveside will be held at a later date. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Maxwell; nurses, Astrid, Bonnie and Eleanor, in the Oncology Department of the Victoria Hospital. As well, we thank palliative nurses, Kris, Jade and Corinne, for the gentle compassion that they showed to her.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 25, 2008