She was born June 12, 1932, in Kennedy, Texas, to Herman and Hilda Ekenstam.

She was confirmed in the New Sweden Lutheran Church in 1947. She attended the Cadillac School in Kennedy, Carlson School in the Carlson Community and graduated from Elgin High School in 1950.

She worked for 20 years at Austex Foods and retired from the State Plumbing Board after 20 years of service June 30, 1992.

She loved country and religious music. Her favorite songs were “How Great Thou Art,” “Rock of Ages,” “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” and “Silent Night.”

Viola was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, John Eric Ekenstam; sister, Hermine Carlson; brother-in-law, Edwin Leroy Carlson and nephew, Carl Edwin Carlson.

Viola leaves to mourn her passing her great-nephew Travis Wayne Carlson; her cousin and caregiver, Marie Ott (Raymond) and family; cousin, Gene (Mary) Ekenstam of California and numerous cousins and friends. She was known to Marie’s great-grandchildren, Brody, Wayde, Lynlee and Katerina, whom she treasured and loved dearly, as Aunt Lola.

Family and friends will gather at New Sweden Church Cemetery to celebrate Viola’s life Thursday, Jan. 30, at 11 a.m.

Arrangements and care are entrusted to Elgin Funeral Home, 712 N. Ave. C in Elgin.

712 N. AVE C • 512.281.5697 elginfuneralhome.net