It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beautiful mother, Maria

Victoria Colmenares, at the age of 67, on November 29th, in Fort McMurray, Alberta.

Maria or often called “Viki”, was born in Bogota, Colombia, April 8, 1956. She was one

of 12 siblings, and played a pivotal role in helping her mother care for all the little

brothers that came after her. In her early years, Maria made the personal decision to

dedicate and prioritize her education, registering herself at a prestigious local Catholic

Convent school for girls; it was here that she resided and completed her high school

education. During the later years of her schooling, Maria met our father who was

stationed nearby at a Colombian Airforce Base. Soon afterwards, they married and

made the life changing decision to move to Canada, seeking for a better future for their

up-and-coming family.

In Ontario, Maria achieved many milestones early on in her life. Along with being a

dedicated and hardworking mother, Maria completed a diploma at Humber College in

Toronto, she became a business owner, and had strong, entrepreneurial ambitions.

Maria's passion for beauty and wellness also inspired her to complete her Professional

Aesthetician Diploma and Laser Technician Certification. In pursuit of change, Maria

decided to move out west to Fort McMurray, Alberta in 2013, where she eventually met

Glenn Holloway. Over the last ten years, Maria and Glenn created many beautiful

memories together, developing a great companionship, which lasted up until her final

days.

She is survived by her children: Anthony and Laura; grandson Zion Jaramillo; and her

niece, Jessica Colmenares, who was like a second daughter to Maria. She is also survived by: 7

brothers, 2 sisters, and many nieces and nephews, many of whom still reside in her native

homeland of Colombia.

Maria sought joy and purpose by servicing and providing her time to the wellbeing of

others. Never forgetting her family in Colombia, Maria’s last wish was dedicated to

helping her latest niece and nephew by adopting them. Sadly, time was not on their

side.

In celebration of Maria’s life, let us remember her vibrant, strong and unwavering spirit,

her dedication to God and to her family, her love of food and dance, her contagious

laughter and her incredible sense of humour. She was a source of resiliency, and

comfort for those closest to her.

Ma, te queremos mucho y te extrañaremos para siempre

To join the family virtualy on December 4, 2023 at 5:00 pm, please click the link below.

Maria Colmenares - Celebration of Life