Viola May Coutu

After 97 years full of family, adventure, enthusiasm and love, Viola Coutu nee Fautley, passed away peacefully in her sleep on December 23, 2025. Viola took true joy in life. Those who had the privilege of knowing her, loved her, and she loved them. Her greatest treasures were her family, and she lived her life for them, making each one feel special.

Viola was born on a farm in the Cyprus Hills on March 28, 1928. Her family soon moved to Maple Creek and then High River. She was an excellent student, especially adept at math. After graduating from nursing at the University of Alberta, she joined her parents in Prince Albert. It was there she met the love of her life, Paul on the ski slopes. They started their married life in Estevan, soon moving to Saskatoon where they stayed. Viola and Paul’s home was a revolving door of kids, friends and neighbours.

Viola was actively involved in the Girl Guides, eventually becoming the Provincial Camp Commissioner, and travelling to Belgium as a leader. She was an enthusiastic birder and a proud member of the Golden Eagles. Reading, playing cards and being in the great outdoors with Paul were among her favourite pastimes. She was an accomplished pianist and seamstress.

She leaves behind her sisters Dorothy and Georgina, brother Raymond; children Cathy (Randy), Ken (Penelope), Mary Jane, Theresa (Don), Nancy (Dwight), Jeanne (Philip), Joe, Jag (Smita); grandchildren Curt (Aimee), Ryan (Kara), Jason (Cathy), Genevieve (Todd), Monique (Drew), Andre (Katia), Kevin, Derek, Carl (Caitlin), Jackson, Adelle (Matthew), Ian (Nadine), Neil (Rachel), Kate (Matt), Monisha (Deepak), Sejal (Kian); great grandchildren Mila, Kiera, Cameron, Levi, Vanessa, Milo, Luc, Dessa, Zoey, Sofia, Theodoric, Asher, Elliana, Avery, Colby, Maya, Aurora, Vivienne, Darshan, Viran, Vidiya and Sanaya. She was predeceased by her loving husband Paul and her parents William and Viola.

A celebration of her life will be held in the spring. The family would like to especially thank the dedicated team of caregivers at Oliver Lodge who made her final house her home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Meewasin Valley Authority.