One of the Rimbey’s core volunteers has been singled out for recognition at a provincial level.
Violet Christianson is one of 81 seniors who has been nominated for this year’s Minister’s Seniors Service Awards.
Christianson, who has been away for family celebrations including an anniversary and a wedding, said she was aware of the nomination, but hadn’t given it much thought.
“It is nice to be nominated,” she said.
Christianson was nominated by Rimbey Family and Community Support Services.
“She’s been a tireless volunteer for more than 30 years,” said Carolynne Jensen, senior information and referral co-ordinator for FCSS.
As an FCSS volunteer Christianson did committee work on policy development and worked on funding development projects every year. She is proficient in office management and has a high level of expertise in bookkeeping and income tax preparation.
“She has a natural common sense to handling life’s circumstances,” said Jensen. “She has a smile and a warmth about her that makes everyone feel comfortable around her.”
Christianson, a long time member of the United Church, is an accomplished pianist who plays at the Rimbey Lodge and the long-term care facility once a month.
She has been a volunteer in the community for many years.
“I have done lots of volunteer stuff, but don’t ask me what it is,” she said with a laugh.
Christianson has three children, Keith, Karen Bannister and Wendy Christianson, two grandchildren, Richard and Lisa and one eight-year-old great-grand-daughter, Mikayla.
She and her late husband, Bruce farmed southwest of Rimbey for many years. Her husband passed away in 2008 and Christianson rented the farm out and moved to town.