Obituary of Maria Victoria Colmenares

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