It is with deep sorrow and profound loss but also abiding faith that the family of Vi Wilken-Aylwin announces her passing at Hanover and District Hospital in the early morning hours of March 30, 2025 in her 97th year.

Vi was born on September 23, 1928 in Bentinck Township to the late Rufus and Mary (Burr) Eva. Vi was one of four children. She was raised in Hanover and attended schools there. In her lifetime Vi was blessed to marry and be loved by two husbands Karl Wilken and Norman Aylwin and treasured by their families. Vi was a loving wife, Mother and homemaker as well as having a career as Supervisor at Buckeye Peerless factory. Vi led a rich, rewarding life and was a valued member of the Hanover community. She was a dedicated life member of the Hanover Legion Branch 130 Ladies Auxiliary and a devoted St. John Ambulance member. Vi dedicated over

42 years to St. John Ambulance. She was one of the originating signing members of the Hanover Nursing Division in 1962 and the Combined Brigade in 1974. She proudly wore her Service Medal of Honour and was promoted in the Order of St. John to the esteemed level of Officer in 1973. As Accommodations Chair, Vi was instrumental in the new build of the first permanent home for St. John Ambulance in Hanover. She continued to serve loyally on the board of directors until 2013. Violet’s dedication to her community and to St. John Ambulance remains as a legacy and inspiration to all. For many summers Vi enjoyed camping at Bluewater Lakes Campground, making beautiful memories and spoiling her many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Vi is survived by her loving and devoted children Sharon Rahn (George), Paul Wilken (Diane), daughter-in-law Jeannette Wilken, stepdaughter Brenda Aylwin (Chris Jones) and stepson Steve Aylwin (Lynn). She also leaves behind her treasured grandchildren Jason Rahn (Stacy), Jared Rahn (Ann), Melissa Warner (Erich), Alison Braithwaite (Mark), Andrew Wilken, Abigail Wilken, Adam Wilken (Laura), Nicole Novosel (Josh) and Scott Andrews (Michelle) as well as precious great grandchildren Jacob and EvaMarie Rahn, Jayden and Ainsley Rahn, Everett Braithwaite, Ethan and Megan Warner, Elizabeth Wilken, Baby Wilken arriving soon, Madeline and Sam Novosel, Tyler Andrews and great great grandchild Mavis Aylwin. Also survived by many nieces, nephews and their families.

Predeceased by her beloved first husband Karl Wilken (1988), beloved second husband Norman Aylwin (2010), son John Wilken (2014), son Don Wilken (2019), stillborn twin daughters, brothers Clarence Eva (Anne), Wilfred Eva (Elsie), and sister Shirley Zimmer (Bob).

Special thanks to the staff of McVean Lodge and the nurses and doctors in ER at HDH for their care and compassion.

Visitation will be held at Mighton Funeral Home, Hanover on Sunday, April 6th, 2025 from 1 – 4 p.m. The funeral will be held on Monday, April 7th, 2025 at 11 a.m. at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 10th St. Hanover, followed by a lunch reception at the Hanover Legion.

Memorial donations may be made to St. John Ambulance or the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 130 Ladies Auxiliary as expressions of sympathy.