We Remember

KRAFT, Violet Minella
October 28, 1934 — May 3, 2025
Violet Minella Kraft (née Johnson) of West Kelowna, BC passed away the morning of May 3rd, 2025. She had celebrated 90 years of life on October 28th, 2024. She is survived by her sons Paul (Kirsten) Rauhala and David Fredericks; grandchildren, Devin Fredericks, Chelsea Fredericks, Silken Rauhala, and Nils Rauhala; and sister Margaret Fredericks. She was predeceased by her husband, Charles Alexander; son Philip Fredericks; and brother, Alf Johnson.
Violet was born in Port Arthur, Ontario, to Charles and Senja Johnson. She raised her 3 sons and worked in the jewellery trade there until retirement. In 1996, she moved out west to Kelowna, BC to be close to her sons and grandchildren. Violet was a wonderful artist. She developed her talents into teaching others how to oil paint. She took pride in her talents and shared many paintings with friends and family.
She was a person with a daily plan and believed in accomplishing something each and every day. A 20-min walk, gardening and growing tomatoes, she took pride in her daily achievements in her retirement years. Her faith in God and messages of Love to her family – from lessons in life – inspired us to be the best version of ourselves today and will continue to shape us in the future.
We were all so fortunate to have the most lovely mother and grandmother anyone could ask for. Violet had a way of making you feel good about yourself, she was just full of love. A celebration was a time to cook a turkey and bake all the favourite treats from her Finnish heritage. No one left hungry from her dinners, and if you did, “that was your fault”, she would say.
Violet’s family would like to thank all of the care aides, nurses, and doctors for their outstanding care.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area call “Condolences”.
Sending love and hugs to Paul, Kirsten, Silken and Nils. Violet, I liked to call her “Mom”, was a very special person, and will be missed so much by her family and friends.
Our deepest sympathies to Paul, Kirsti, Silken and Nil’s. We were fortunate to have received one of your mom’s paintings. She was very talented. We are thankful you had a chance to celebrate her 90th Birthday this past fall. What an amazing woman! We are sure you will continue to look back on all the great memories you have of her. Thinking of you, sending our love and condolences xoxoxoxo Stephanie (Dave), Keera, Kari and Jess.
Dear Paul, Kirsten, Silken, and Nils,
Sending love and hugs to each of you. Violet’s love and energy will be deeply treasured and forever remembered.
Our sincere condolences. Wishing you peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Sending you and your family much love.
With heartfelt sympathy,
All of the Gardners