Etta Vinet Celebrates Her 90th Birthday in Style

Etta Vinet Celebrates Her 90th Birthday in Style

Rosanne Fortier - News Correspondent

Over 70 family members and friends honoured Etta Vinet on her 90th birthday on June 17 at Senior Citizens Sunshine Club of Vegreville.

Etta’s oldest son Darryl Vinet organized this event. Etta’s birthday is officially on June 16. Many people remembered Etta Vinet and her family from the grocery store they owned in Vegreville, Vinet Food King.

Etta’s daughter Lisa Vinet, (Myroon) read the speech written by Glen and her. “This is indeed a momentous occasion for Darryl, Neil, Glen and myself because our mom is one of the most active and energized 90-year-olds you will ever meet. And I know our brother Al is looking down on us today in agreement.

Mom was raised on a farm in Saskatchewan and later moved with her mom (our grandma), to Nelson, BC. She returned to Saskatchewan, fell in love with our Dad, and shared a life together raising five amazing children. With hard work, sacrifice and dedication, they built a successful business.

Mom’s home is her castle where she loves and enjoys her yard. Her family means the world to her. She loves company and takes extra special care to make sure everyone feels welcome and is well fed.”

Etta’s granddaughter Trina Vinet’s toast echoed some of these sentiments, “Grandma, as we look around this room filled with love and admiration, we see the effect you have had on all of our lives; especially those of your grandchildren. Your unwavering love, kindness and wisdom have guided us through the years, shaping us into the individuals we are today.

Etta listens to her children’s speeches.

(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

In writing this toast I reached out to all your grandchildren for words that they felt best described you. So, these words aren’t just from me, they are from all of us. You are maternal to the core and a constant caregiver, you are always putting everyone else first. Your generosity knows no limits.”

Etta’s grandson Trevor Vinet commented, “In 1973, Grandma Etta & Grandpa Mac sold the general store that they had been running in Marcelin and headed west. They settled in the bustling metropolis of Vegreville, where they would get serious about the grocery business. They purchased the Tom Boy store, and that was the start of their Alberta roots.

Etta & Mac spent many winters in Arizona where they grew their network of friends. They spent 20 in the snow bird community of Mesa. Etta’s tendency to establish authentic friendships had their snowbird pals visiting them at their Vegreville home in the summers.

Above all, Grandma Etta has always been a family woman. The proud mother of five, 14 grandchildren, and now she has eight great grandchildren. She’s the matriarch of this great legacy we are all proud to call her our mother, grandmother, and GG.”