With very heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Lucy Viola Hulst, known to all as Viola, on July 10, 2025, in Thunder Bay, Ontario, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was 75 years old.
Viola was born on August 5, 1949, in Glovertown, Newfoundland. In 1966, she moved with her family to Thunder Bay, where she completed her high school education, got married, and went on to build a life rooted in love, generosity, and quiet strength. Viola was a homemaker, who raised her two daughters almost completely on her own. For a time she was also an in-home caregiver for both her mother and mother-in-law.
A long-time member of the Salvation Army Ladies Home League, Viola found comfort and connection in her faith. In her younger years, she enjoyed embroidery hoop weaving, was an avid reader, and always had a puzzle on the go. She had a good sense of humour and appreciated having a laugh.
Viola loved going back to visit Newfoundland and always felt a strong connection to her home. Her roots remained an important part of her identity throughout her life.
Generous with her time and care, Viola often helped provide childcare to family and friends. In recent years, she enjoyed caring for her niece Sivanna, who was like the granddaughter she never had.
Viola will be deeply missed by her daughters, Kimberly Hulst and Amanda Stewart (James). She was predeceased by her former husband, Richard Hulst, by her parents, Thomas and Winnie Perry, her brothers Raymond, Jethro, and most recently Bramwell, and her niece Lisa Perry.
She is lovingly remembered by her sister Effie Shinners, brothers Donald, Melvin (Debbie), and Barry Perry, as well as sister-in-law Joyce Perry. Viola also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, as well as great-nieces and great-nephews, all of whom she cared for deeply.
The family wishes to express heartfelt thanks to the doctors and nurses in the ICU at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre for their kind and compassionate care during Viola’s final days.
Cremation has taken place. A gathering for family and friends will be held on Thursday, July 17, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at West Thunder Community Centre. If desired, in lieu of flowers donations in Viola’s memory may be made to the Thunder Bay Community Church or another charity of your choosing.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
