April 8, 1939 – February 19, 2025

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Violet Louise Holden (née Nickel) on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at the age of 85 years. She passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and strength.

Violet was born on April 8, 1939, in Waskatenau, Alberta, to Marie and Nathaniel Nickel. She spent her early years on the family farm before moving to Wembley. In 1959, she married Jim Holden, with whom she shared a life of unwavering partnership and devotion. Together, they raised their five children in Grande Prairie, before relocating to Stony Plain/Spruce Grove area in 1977.

Throughout her lifetime, Violet demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination. She held a variety of occupations, including teaching, telephone operator and school bus driver, before obtaining her Class 1 driver’s license. For 13 years, she joined her husband Jim as a professional truck driver, skillfully navigating the road alongside him in an 18-wheeler—an accomplishment that reflected her steadfast work ethic and adventurous spirit.

A woman of deep faith, Violet was an active member of the Anglican Church, where she found strength and community. She was also a gifted knitter, crocheter, and crafter, taking great pride in creating intricate and cherished pieces for her loved ones. Her greatest joy, however, was found in the presence of her family.

Violet is survived by her children, Jim (Sandy) Holden, Arlene (Chris) Mooney, Ken (Cindi) Holden, and Rob (Karen) Holden. She was a beloved grandmother to Nathan Holden, Dylan Holden, Christopher Holden, Kyle Holden, Amanda Mooney, Ansley Mooney, Deanna Mooney, Jessica (Braiden) Murray, Brittney Holden (Damian Bérubé), Mackenzie Holden (Aaron Fern), Natasha Price, and a proud great-grandmother to James Holden, Jackson Holden, Boston Murray, Rylee Murray, Teagan Gebkenjans, Kennedy Bérubé, Olivia Bérubé, and Joshua Koch. She is also survived by her siblings Audrey Robertson, and Stanley Nickel, and brother-in-law Keith Holden, numerous nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.

Violet was predeceased by her husband, Jim Holden; her son, William John (Jack) Holden; and her parents.

Violet’s kindness, resilience, and devotion to her family and faith, will be remembered with deep admiration, and affection. Her love lives on in the many lives she touched, and she will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Celebration of Life
Cremation has taken place, a celebration of life to follow.

Memorial Donations
In lieu of flowers, donations in Violet’s memory
may be made to a charity of choice.

May she rest in eternal peace.