We are profoundly saddened to announce the passing of Michael (Mike) Violette, just 9 days shy of his 80th birthday. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Jean, his son Tony (Karin), daughter Sherry (Jim), grandchildren Amanda and Alek (Corrina). As well as his family, whom he loved deeply, he leaves behind many long term friends and his faithful duck tolling retriever Ben.
Mike’s forefathers were originally from France. He was born in New Brunswick and lived there as a boy until his family moved to Toronto in the mid 1940’s. His first job was a bicycle delivery boy for a local drug store. His next job, which he got through a neighbour, was also as a bicycle delivery person however it was for an international diamond dealer.
Eventually this second job turned into his lifetime occupation as a jeweller. He learned the business from the ground up, working in the office, grading and sorting diamonds, fulfilling orders, as a wholesaler in the industry and finally as the owner operator of a jewellery store. Mike and his wife owned the jewellery store in Edgemont Village for many years until they retired in 2009. He was on the executive of the BC Jewellers Association and had a multitude of friends and colleagues in the industry.
Mike really felt at home in Edgemont Village. He met many like minded people there, with similar interests in community and family. He participated in the Edgemont Village Business Association and worked on countless community events. His most memorable contribution might have been helping to launch Evenings in Edgemont. An outdoor concert series that ran on Friday nights featuring local musicians. This event became a beloved summer tradition for local folks.
Mike had a love of music his whole life. As a young man he played drums in a band called “The Prisms”. Eventually, he learned to play the acoustic guitar and he also sang. He had a beautiful Gibson with a pick up that he enjoyed playing for many years. He had many gigs, music sessions and house parties with live music as the focus.
He enjoyed cooking and eating good food and had several favorite restaurant spots that he frequented. He followed politics and current affairs, was well read and always happy to share his views and opinions. When he was younger, he enjoyed travelling and had some memorable trips to Africa, Hong Kong, Hawaii and several destinations in the Caribbean.
He loved dogs and could often be found walking with them on trails in the forest or on a beach. During his lifetime he had several dogs, mostly Golden Retrievers. He also loved birds and could identify the local ones by sight and sound. He always had a feeder outside the kitchen window so he could watch their antics as he cooked in the kitchen, often while sipping on a glass of red wine.
Mike will be remembered as a kind and thoughtful person. He was interested in others and very caring. He was highly principled with a strong sense of community. In his younger years he was a member of the Jaycees and formed lifelong friendships with people he met in that group. In his later years, he was a member of the Rotary Club where he again found meaningful connections. His whole life he volunteered at innumerable events, projects and fundraisers all in an effort to give back. Service to others was a core value in his life. He made a difference.
He was loved and admired by many and will be missed greatly by his family and friends. As per his wishes, he will be cremated. A celebration of life will be held at a later time. In Lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your favorite charity. Mike would have liked that.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
25 Responses
We are very saddened to learn of Mike’s passing. We have fond memories of chatting with Mike as customers at Edgemont Jewellers. He was a man of high integrity, provided excellent service and always had a big welcoming smile. We continue to miss him, Sherry and the store. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends.
I was sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. I have so many fond memories of Mike in the jewellery store. My husband bought most of my gifts through Mike over the years. One of my husband’s favourite expressions while shopping was “Mike, just show me the most expensive because that’s where I’ll end up” Mike always got a kick of it. One time I lost an earring that I got for Christmas from my husband and I knew he would be annoyed with me, so I went to Mike and asked him to make me a replacement and not to tell my husband I’d lost it. He said “don’t worry your secret is safe with me” and it was. He was gentleman and a friend to all. May he Rest in Peace.
Fond memories of our kind and friendly neighbor plus memories of Micheal’s smile every time I entered the store in Edgemont Village will always be carried in my heart. He left a legacy of special creations like my hammered gold bracelet that will be passed on to future generations. The community benefited from his commitment to helping others in so many ways.
Was so sorry to hear the news, I will always have memories of the times I spent in Edgemont Jewelers both shopping and visiting with the family, Edgemont village was magic. My condolences to all of you, I know he will Rest In Peace, May the rest of the family have good days. Barbara Gillingham
Jean, Sherry, Tony and all,
What a beautiful obituary you have written. It truly captures Mike’s spirit. I’ve always been impressed by all your involvements in the community and world at large, and remember many fine conversations with and meals prepared by Mike. I’m so glad we had the opportunity to bring the kids out for a short visit before our big move south.
We send much love and warm thoughts from Texas at this very sad time.
Warm regards,
Heather, Jason, Naomi and Ryan.
Jean
We were saddened to hear the news of Mike’s passing. Our thoughts and our condolences go to you and all your family.
I am so sorry for your loss Jean ,Sherry and Tony. Mike will be missed. He always had time for a little chat. He always inspired me to eat healthy vegetables and convinced us to grow tomatoes. Mike always inspired me to stay active he and Jean walked ,gardened and worked happily around their property.I am thankful Jean that you and Mike were here when we moved . Rest In Peace Mike
What a beautiful tribute, we’re so sad for your loss.
Our sincere condolences go out to the family.
We have made a donation to WAGS in Michael’s honor.
Karen and Bill
What a lovely tribute and a way to remember fondly such a wonderful man, husband, and Dad. He gave much of himself to many, including me. My condolences to Jean, Sherry, and Tony.
Much love,
Janice and Greg
It is so difficult to lose the cornerstone of your family…what a wonderful legacy Mike has left behind in all of you! May you have peace in your hearts and many loving memories to carry you through this difficult time. Much love to you all ~ Xoxo