December 27, 1937 - January 30, 2023
How do you condense the library of one's life into a single paragraph? The dash between the dates over flows with love, laughter, sorrow, and even the mundane. Vi's life began two days after Christmas and carried that spirit of generosity and beauty throughout her life.
Violetta Mae Kacalek was born December 27, 1937, in North Dakota to Victor and Jewel Kacalek. She shared her childhood with siblings Victor, Delores, Arthur, and David. The family move from Arkansas to settle in California where she graduated from Azusa Pacific College. There she met her future husband Wesley Howard and married in 1958.
She was an elementary school teacher until the babies came: Gregory and Diana. She dedicated her life and motherhood in raising her children. The family moved from Pomona to Orangevale to Fair Oaks then to Linden, their permanent home. Wes and Vi opened their hearts and home to adopt twin sisters Fay and Ann.
Vi's talent as a painter and artist brought her into the art world of California. She managed art fairs and events in Sacramento and Stockton malls, and ran an art gallery in Linden where she taught painting.
She and Wes were involved with Stockton Covenant Church. She served as secretary for many years. They opened their home and cabin retreat for fellowship and respite to many.
In later years Vi volunteered with the Assistance League of Stockton and supported Wounded Warrior Project, Salvation Army of Lodi, Environmental Defense Fund, Guiding Eyes for the Blind, Habitat for Humanity, Susan G. Koman Foundation, and Assistance for Ukraine. To continue her work, she wished family and friends to send support to any of these charities in memorial.
Her other interests were gardening, reading, ancestral research, meals with family and friends, and celebrations with her grandchildren. Vi decorated her home for each holiday, especially Christmas throughout the year. “Christmas isn't just one day, it's a frame of mind.”
Violetta is survived by her son Gregory (Heidi), son-in-law Steven Reinhardt (Paula), and seven grandchildren: Bo, Britta (Steven), and Brennan Howard, and Markus, Anastasia (Alex), Sophia, and Peter Reindhardt.
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Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Howard family.