Marielle T. Violette

Marielle T. (Bernier) Violette, 90, of East Hartford, passed away on Friday, January 8, 2021, in her home with her loving family by her side. She was predeceased in 2014 by her devoted husband and soul mate, Reginald J. Violette, after 64 years of marriage. Marielle, who was the third of nine children, was born in Saint-Évariste, Quebec, Canada, to the late Willie and Marie (Roy) Bernier.

Marielle will be dearly missed by her eight children and their spouses: Glenn and Susan (Begam) Violette of Craig, CO; Gail and Dale Duby of East Haddam, CT; Gary and Louise (Theroux) Violette of Holland, MA; Karen Violette of Cape Cod, MA; Lynn Keena of East Hartford, CT; Janet and Timothy Ryder of South Windsor, CT; Kevin and Karen (Frick) Violette of Woodbury, CT; and Kenneth and Pamela (Day) Violette of South Windsor, CT.

Known as Mémère to her large family, her grandchildren feel blessed to have had her in their lives. Each grand-and-great-grandchild brought her great joy and spent many hours nestled in her loving arms, soothed to sleep by a lullaby crooned in French. They were guided by Mémère’s quiet wisdom and enjoyed spending time with her doing a puzzle and sipping a cup of coffee. Mem will be deeply missed by: Alyson Karpiej, Amber Marino and Caitlin Lalemand; Jeremy, Todd and Eric Violette; Brandon Walpole; Justin Keena and Julia Kaschak; Leanne Ryder; Daniel, Adam and Mark Violette; Jake and Wade Violette. She will also be missed by her great-grandchildren: Danielle, Luke, Alynna and Kade Karpiej; Anthony and Violette Marino; Braden and Benjamin Violette; Reagan Violette; Shaeley Arneson and Bella Walpole; Justin and Genevieve Kaschak; and Isaac and Davy Keena. She will be mourned and fondly remembered by a multitude of nieces and nephews and their children. She leaves behind her sister, Jeannine Mack of Manchester, CT and brothers, George Bernier of California, and Normand Bernier of Farmington, CT. Marielle was predeceased by her siblings: Annette Acanto, Rolande Millerick, Aline O'Connor, Clement and Raymond Bernier.

Marielle will be remembered for her great love of her faith and her family. She lived a remarkable life of service, caring for her younger siblings when their mother passed away. When raising her own eight children, each felt equally treasured; she instilled a deep appreciation for time spent together and for supporting each other through the inevitable ups and downs of life. Marielle had a wonderful sense of humor and her laugh and beautiful smile would light up a room. She was happiest when surrounded by her cherished family and her home was the gathering place for nearly every celebration. Cooking for all of us was a labor of love and we share fond memories of the wonderful meals she prepared.

Our family extends deep gratitude to the wonderful care-givers from Companions & Homemakers, whose dedication helped to honor our mother’s wish to remain in her home until her passing.

Marielle and her adored husband Reggie were a devoted and faithful couple, and an amazing team, as much in love in parting as on the very first day. It brings our family great comfort to know that they are now reunited forever.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at the family’s discretion. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Eternal Word Television Network/EWTN, 5817 Old Leeds Road, Irondale AL 35210-9768. Marielle took great comfort in EWTN’s daily mass and afternoon devotions. The Newkirk & Whitney Funeral Home318 Burnside Ave. East Hartford, CT. 06108 was entrusted with her care. For online tributes, please visit www.newkirkandwhitney.com.