Greta Viola FRIIS
March 25, 1920 – April 1, 2016
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our mother, Greta Friis. She is survived by her children, Roy (Helen), Lars, and Margreth (Gary); grandchildren, Laurie (Matt), Tricia (Les), Orlena; and great grandchildren, Jason, Lenaya, and Eric (Gina). Greta was predeceased by her husband, Johan (John), son, Borge (Bugs), as well as all her siblings in Finland.
Greta moved to Canada with her three young boys in December of 1951 to join Johan who was already living in Port Alberni. She did seamstress work while Johan did house framing and later boat building at the Alberni Shipyard. In 1954, Margreth was born and their life in Canada had been firmly established. Along with her work as a seamstress, Greta helped out catering, and cooking at the Greenwood Hotel. Later she began cooking at the Woodward’s Lunch Counter. In her mind, Woodward’s had the best of everything.
Greta and Johan moved into their new house on Craig Street in December of 1959 where she lived until 2005. The neighbourhood was a great place, with neighbours who became lifelong friends.
Moving out of her home in 2005 was a big change for Greta but she quickly made new friends at Heritage Place. A few years later failing health required another move, this time to Stanford Place Care Campus in Parksville. Our family is eternally grateful to the kind and capable staff there who made her stay with them as comfortable and loving as possible during her declining years. The family would also like to thank Dr. Henderson for his guidance and excellent medical care over these past years.
We will miss her bright smile and warm heart that has guided us through all these years.
A Memorial Service will be held in Greta’s honour at 11:00 am on Saturday, April 9, 2016 at Yates Funeral Chapel, 1000 Allsbrook Road in Parksville.
To send a condolence to the family please visit www.yatesfuneral.ca
YATES FUNERAL SERVICE & CREMATORIUM
(250-248-5859) in care of arrangements.