Patricia G. Viola (Hebbard), 94, of Silver Bay, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2024, at the Minnesota Veterans Home in Silver Bay.
Pat was born on May 19, 1929 to George and Ethel Hebbard in Mohawk, MI. She grew up in the snow belt of the U.P. attending Calumet High School. Pat met Buck (John Viola) the love of her life there, literally, they grew up 6 blocks apart. They were married on June 4, 1951, for 69 years until Buck passed.
Pat worked as a teller and officer at Norwest Bank in Silver Bay before retiring in 1982 after 17 years. She was a member of United Protestant Church in Silver Bay.
Pat was a homemaker and volunteer and thrived on raising her three sons. She was a sports fan (especially hockey), and loved to go fishing (although not big on eating them, so there were always plenty of side dishes) and camping. When the family expanded, she was always the “go-to” mom/grandma for advice, support and cookies. Her door was always open and wherever she lived she had a special talent for making everyone comfortable.
Pat spent all her free time between the sewing machine and the kitchen. She was an expert quilter and was known for her fleece hats, mittens and clothing. She met with the Sit-n-Knit group weekly for many years; great things happened there. She loved baking and making Pasties for the family; when she made anything, it was to feed a crowd.
Pat was preceded in death by her parents and her husband John (Buck) Viola. She is survived by her sister, Gracia (Hebbard) Bracco; sons, Chris (Nancy), Mark (Carol) and Jesse; granddaughters, Libby, Lacey, Gina, and Shay; grandsons, Dan, Derek, Ryan, Neil and Tanner; 16 great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and special friend Frank.
Many thanks from the family to the staff at the MVHSB for their compassionate and loving care. Pat loved it there. A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date to be determined.
Memorials may be sent to Untied Protestant Church, Silver Bay: Silver Bay M-Club.
