Mildred Holmquist

Mildred Holmquist went to be with the Lord on Thursday, January 17, 2013 at the age of 101. Born on October 6, 1911, in Pittsburgh, PA to Michael and Katherine Popovich, she was the eldest of 6 children. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 48 years, Carl Edward Holmquist, in 1985; her younger brother Mike Popovich in 2006; sisters Sarah Focaretta in 1986, Emma Swenki in 2006, and Stella Ardolino in 2007; and nephews Andrew Beres in 2001 and Bob Beres in 2007. She is survived by her daughter Millie Wiles, son-in-law Rollin Wiles, grandson Mark Wiles, sister Georgette Beres, and numerous nieces and nephews.

“Grandma,” as she was lovingly known by everyone was a loving wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and friend. To know her was to love her. Her profound desire to please everyone was evident in every thread of her life. She always baked for her doctors, family friends, and loved ones. As the daughter of immigrants living through the depression she knew what living on a budget and self-sacrifice meant and kept her conservative views throughout her life. She loved simple things in life like spending time with friends, family and extended family; working the Jumble; clipping recipes; playing cards; cooking; baking; attending church; traveling to see wildflowers; and sharing her life experiences. She was always grateful for everything provided for her and never sought to burden others, even in matters of her own health. She fought valiantly to overcome so many medical problems and was always appreciative of those loving and helping her. She only started to slow after suffering a broken leg in 2009 at the age of 98.

“Grandma” was very much a part of many lives, and although she is blessed to now be in heaven, free of all medical problems, there is a huge loss felt especially by her family and friends. The lives she touched will forever remember her.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the first doctor, Henry M. Dittert, MD, founder of the South Austin Medical Clinic, to care for her, and who became family to all of us. Without him, many referrals would not have been made which began a long medical journey. We also thank all the other doctors and staff of South Austin Medical Clinic who have cared for her throughout the years. We would like to send a special thanks to Dr.’s George Lowe, Palo Venegoni, L. Gilbey, Tallman, Charlie Ross, Dudley Youman, Yberra, Enrique Spindel and the now deceased Dr. B. Weinstein, all of whom have cared for her with special compassion and concern. The family also thanks the Standard Home Health personnel, namely Terri and Katy for their loving care.