September 7, 1926 - March 10, 2020
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Viola Southgate (nee Westerlund) on 10 March, 2020. Viola was born at home on 7 September 1926 in Whonnock BC, the child of Finnish and Swedish immigrants.
Viola was a tuberculosis survivor, having spent her teenage years in the Tranquille Sanatorium in Kamloops. Viola went on to marry William (Bill) Southgate 28 February, 1953. They had five children, and lived an exciting life together, until Bill died 15 August 1994.
Viola was a lifelong political activist and supporter of progressive causes, and a strong believer in social justice. Viola participated in anti-nuclear protests, the campaign to save rural post offices, and was an enthusiastic Raging Granny. She was an early member of the CCF, and a long time member of the NDP.
Viola believed strongly in education, and was one of the first students at the then Fraser Valley College. She took one course a year, for over twenty years until she received her BA in English and History from Simon Fraser University. When she graduated in 1996, she was the valedictorian, and received a special award in recognition of her contributions to the learning community. She was an inspiration to her fellow students, and an example of the value of lifelong learning. Viola often remarked : "Get an education, it doesn't weigh anything."
Survived and dearly missed by her five children Karin, William (Bud), Robert (Jock), David, and Diana, plus their spouses, twelve grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren. Viola lived a full and vibrant life filled with books, travel, music, family and friends. She will be remembered and missed forever. Many thanks to the staff at Valley Haven Retirement Community for their dedicated care.
A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.