Violet Yazzolino Petersen

It is with great sadness that the family of Violet Yazzolino Petersen, “Vi”, announces her passing suddenly at the age of 104. The Lord took her back into His loving embrace in the early hours of Monday, September 24th 2018.

Violet was born in 1914 in Melmont, WA., and was the youngest of six. Felix (19041991), Hazel (1906-1983), Virginia (1908-1911), Warren (1910-1997), Randy (19121998). The family moved to Portland where brothers Walter (1918-1981) and Raymond (1924-1985) and sister Connie (1922) were born. Then Domenick (1943) and Michael (1945-1967) are siblings from her fathers second marriage.

While we are all deeply saddened by her passing, Vi would not want us to look upon her life with sadness in our hearts, but rather to find joy in the blessings that she received daily, and the love she bestowed upon all those around her freely. Her life was a light that cast aside all darkness, and a warmth that gave us shelter and peace through life’s trials and tribulations. Everywhere Violet went people were astounded by the grace and poise she carried herself with. She was a beacon of hope for those who needed it. She fought tirelessly to give her daughters, Diane Wheeler and Patricia Boyle, a better life and succeeded in abundance and she adored her son-in-laws Ron and Terry. The light of her life was her grandson, Kyle, who became the catalyst for her retirement from Bay Meadows Race Track after 47 years of employment. Retiring at 75 years old. Her heart, though shared by all, found its home in the arms of Steven Pizzo, her best friend and truest love and the missing link in their family chain. Family was always of the utmost importance to Violet, be it by blood or by acquaintance, and she made sure that everyone knew just how special they were to her. Violet loved spending time with her family and could always be seen smiling her contented smile as it grew when they gathered around her. Whether it was spending time with her sister Connie, talking about memories past with Domenick, or reminiscing about her other siblings, the joy that came from the love only a family can provide was never far from her heart, and it carried her spirit until her passing. Her Faith, like her spirit, was strong and vibrant. Even in the toughest of times she always had a prayer ready and the Lord close to her heart. She was an angel here on Earth, and all of those lucky enough to have had the opportunity to spend even the slightest bit of time with Violet could tell you that the divine spirit radiated from her brighter than any star. Today, the world is a little dimmer without her, but the Heaven’s shine brighter than ever as the Angels welcome her into their midst.

There are no words that can sum up the life of a woman as remarkable as Violet. We are all forever blessed to have been able to share our lives with her. Though she will be greatly missed, Violet’s love will always be a part of us, and for that, we are eternally grateful.

Family and friends may visit on Thursday, October 4, 2018 beginning at 4:00 PM with a Vigil Service at 7:00 PM at the Chapel of the Highlands, 194 Millwood Drive in Millbrae. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday at 11:00 AM at St. Dunstan Catholic Church, 1133 Broadway in Millbrae. Committal Service to follow at Olivet Memorial Park in Colma.

“As long as we have love in our hearts, and

faith in the Lord, I know that everything will be OK.” -Violet

In lieu of flowers please make donations to:

St. Joseph Parish, 280 Oak Tree Lane, Lincoln, Ca. 95648, email: stjosephlincoln@gmail.com, phone (916) 645-2102.