It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Vivian (Viv) Heide (nee Wright), who left us on January 17, 2024. She was a cherished member of our family and a pillar of strength for all who knew her.

Mom was the youngest of five children, born in Morden on June 30, 1950, to William and Mary Ehnes. She grew up in Morden until marrying our dad, Bernie, in 1968 at the age of eighteen. They briefly lived in Calgary and Thompson, eventually moving to Portage La Prairie in 1973, where they raised the three of us.

Mom worked at the sewing factory and Dairy Queen until buying the family business, Robin’s Donuts, in 1982. She not only helped run the 24/7-hour business, but she developed many friendships with coworkers and customers, treating them like family.

In 1995, another chapter of mom’s life began in Winnipeg, where she met her second husband, Art Heide. Together, they moved to Selkirk where they spent the next 29 years of their lives together. There she worked as a dietary aide at Red River Place until her retirement in 2017.

Culinary Marvel: Mom is renowned for her exceptional culinary skills, which brought joy to countless people. Her dishes were more than just meals; they were expressions of love and care that brought people together. To this date no one could ever replicate her meatballs.

Infectious Laughter: Mom would go on these bouts of giggling fits that were just infectious, filling every room with warmth and joy. She had a way of turning even the simplest moments into cherished memories with her laughter and exuberant spirit. Even when her health deteriorated, those 101 days at Selkirk Regional Health Center where she was confined, were filled with giggles while reminiscing memories of family, friends, and loved ones.

Adored by Many: Mom had a welcoming nature that made everyone feel at ease in her presence. The many friendships she had developed during the Robin’s Donuts days were a testament to her sincerity in connecting with customers as family. Her absence surely leaves a void that cannot be filled.

The world has lost a remarkable soul, but her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched. We find solace in knowing that her suffering no longer endures and that her spirit will continue to guide us in the years to come.

Left to cherish her memory is her husband, Art Heide, daughter Cristie (Darren) Gourley of Edwin, daughter Dee (Gary) Romijn of La Salle, son Riley (LL) Wright of Moose Jaw; eight grandchildren: Devon (Kristi), Cole, Jaden, Cassandra (Michael), Kadynce, Tristan, Dawson (Acacia), and Tyler; as well as four great grandchildren: Blake, Charlotte, Haysten and Araya. Also surviving are her two sisters, Ivadelle, Eilleen, and one brother, Brian, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Also mourning our dad, Bernie Wright, and his sisters Helen, Edie, Allene, Shirley, and their families.

She was predeceased by her parents William (Bill) and Mary (Minnie), and one sister, Barbara.

Cremation has taken place.

The immediate family will get together at a later date for a Service.

Donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Society of Manitoba, 120 Donald Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 4G2.

Interlake Cremation & Memorial Services in care of arrangements.