Vivian had a wonderful childhood. She grew up on her family farm in Fordland, Missouri. Her fondest memories were playing with the animals, tending to the garden and bonding with her siblings Ruth, Zoe, Phyllis and D.J. A story that she would retell was when she got sprayed by a skunk and Phyllis lovingly took her to The Bucket Branch to clean her up. The Bookout’s are a close bunch and family was the most important part of Vivian’s life. She would always show her playful side when she was with them. Whether it was at an infamous Bookout reunion or a casual lunch when they would visit her, Vivian made it a priority to see them.
After graduating as Valedictorian of her high school class, Vivian set her sights for greater heights. Phyllis—her ride or die—would join her for their next big adventure, moving to the city. Her first job was as a secretary at People to People. She would always talk about how she ran into Dwight D. Eisenhower on an elevator going to work one day.
While in Kansas City, she endured an unplanned pregnancy out of wedlock and gave birth. Vivian at the young age of 19 performed the most selfless act any woman can carry out, giving a child up for adoption. She kept this child in her heart and was blessed to be reunited with her. It provided her much comfort to know that her daughter Kathy had been safe and loved her entire life. Vivian took great pride in retelling their story.
Vivian and Bob married on December 22, 1967. Together they started their business, Olympic House and Window Cleaning from the ground up. The most prestigious addresses in KC were among their cliental. From the Helzberg’s, to George Brett and even the Kauffman’s, their company became a reputable and strong small business in the Kansas City area. Robert was the face, but Vivian was the brains and backbone behind the whole operation. She was content with it that way, together they were a remarkable team.
On March 11, 1969, Vivian gave birth to her daughter Renee and from then on she became her world. Entertaining and meeting Renee’s every need, she was still capable of seamlessly running the office. She had the roles as Renee’s playmate and caregiver, all while running the business and taking care of Bob. Which is a full-time job for all of you that know Bobby. You never, ever, heard her complain or utter a crossword about anyone or anything.
Vivian would show that same endless amount of love and nurture to her grandkids Tony and Nancy Marquez, Nico and Marco Marquez, Mia Falcon and great-grandkids Elijah Alexander, Avalyn Natalia, Cristian Tiago and Landon Carrillo-Marquez. For seventeen year’s Vivian had a front row seat at watching them grow. They were fortunate to have an opportunity to spend almost every waking day with their G-ma and GG. They always brought out the silly side of her. There was nothing they loved more than seeing her smile. The memories they made will last a lifetime. No one will ever take the place that she has in their hearts.
Vivian endured many health issues since 2006. She fought hard to stay strong so that she could remain on this earth with her family. We believe the doctor’s and caregivers at KU Medical Center and Kansas City Hospice considerably extended her life and time with her family. Our family is deeply in debited to them. Their medical expertise and care are a huge contributing factor for her 90 years on earth.
Vivian’s family was given a true gift of time. God wrapped his arms around our family and gave us sacred time to be with our Mama, Grammy and GG. We are at peace knowing that she is preceded in death with her siblings, parents and many other family members. If you have a story to share, please comment below.
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