Obituary of Vivian Ellen Oliver
Stellarton, Nova Scotia
August 13, 1935 – May 24, 2025
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of Vivian Oliver, aged 89, in Palliative Care surrounded by her loving family. Viv, or lovingly known by many as Gram, was the heart of the Oliver family. She was a woman whose life was defined by unwavering love, selflessness, and dedication to those she held dear. She was a proud Michelin employee for over 25 years. She retired with strong pride in her work and remained a loyal member of the Michelin family throughout her life.
Vivian is survived by her children: Evelyn (Allie) Irving, Stellarton; John (Debbie) Oliver, Greenhill; and Roger (Shawna) Oliver, Bangor, Maine. She was a cherished grandmother to Jason (Heather) Wadden, Robbie (Melissa) Wadden, Colin (Nicki) Wadden, Matthew (Kristen) Oliver, Kyle (Alyssa) Oliver, Clarie Oliver, Steven (Erica) Oliver, Jackie (Jason) Pratt, Jacob (Nevaeh) Oliver, and Sam Oliver. Her memory lives on through her great-grandchildren: Gillian (Chris), Billy (Remi), Taylor (Maddox), Faith, Nate, Liam, Braeden, Sara, Johnny, Jaxson, Wyatt, Ava, Jack, and Grayson; and her great-great-grandchildren: Isaac and Lucas.
Vivian’s greatest love was her children. She cherished them deeply and loved her daughter and sons beyond measure. They were the center of her world, her pride, and her purpose. She raised them with unwavering devotion, teaching them the value of hard work, selflessness, and family. With just a quick phone call to check in, she made sure they always knew how deeply they were loved. Her strength, compassion, and boundless heart live on in each of them — a true reflection of the woman who raised them.
As a grandmother she leaves behind a legacy of overwhelming love and affection, comfort through long hugs, and those classic sopping wet grandma kisses that we are all going to miss so dearly. Gram absolutely adored each one of her grandchildren individually and in her own special and unique way. Throughout different stages of life, many of her grandchildren were lucky enough to live with them. They found comfort and home under their roof, where love was unconditional, and the door was always open. Gram and Bud helped raise their family into kind-hearted and loyal people who know that family will always come first. After 15 years and seven grandsons later, finally they got their girls. They poured their hearts into every moment with them. To Gram, they weren’t just granddaughters — they were her Beautiful Angel and her Pretty Princess. That kind of love imprints itself on your soul and will carry with us, always. She was incredibly proud of every one of her grandchildren.
She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and many dear friends.
Vivian was predeceased by her beloved husband, Jack “Bud” Oliver—her soulmate. They were like two Lego pieces, they just fit. Together, they created a warm and welcoming home, known for its open doors and open hearts. Their house was a second home to countless children, grandchildren, and neighbors, where memories were made, and laughter was shared. As avid Blue Jays fans, we can only imagine them reunited, settling in for a Jays game with a sweet treat, shouting play-by-plays at each other from separate rooms, hanging on each other's every word. Theirs was a love of a lifetime.
Vivian was predeceased by her parents William and Margaret (Campbell) Fleming; brother, Roger (Winnifred) Fleming, and her sister, Helen (Al) Carrigan.
She shared a once-in-a-lifetime bond with her best friend and next-door neighbor, Myrna. The Asphalt, where they built their lives side by side, will never be the same. Myrna was more than a friend; she was family in every sense of the word. After Jack’s passing, Myrna stood by Viv’s side, helping support and care for her. They leaned on each other through life’s hardest days and celebrated its sweetest moments together. Their bond was built on laughter, loyalty, and a deep, abiding love that only the truest of friends could share. Our hearts are with Myrna, who loved Viv just as fiercely as we did. Thank you for being her rock, her companion, and her best friend. Your history together is woven into our family’s story, and we are forever grateful for you.
A heartfelt thank you to the VON for their years of incredible care. Viv adored her caregivers and loved them as her own. We are so grateful to each one of you for allowing us the gift of more time with her at home. Your compassion and dedication let her live the way she wanted, in her own home with family. You truly made her day, every day, four times a day. You became part of the family. Thank you.
A special thank you to the Medicine Unit and the Palliative Care Unit at the Aberdeen Hospital for the tremendous care they provided. Over the past years, many nurses and staff came to know Viv and treated her with such kindness and compassion. We couldn’t have asked for better care from either unit. We are forever grateful.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the SPCA. Vivian was a lifelong animal lover. Jack and Viv are now reunited not only with each other, but also with their beloved Yorkies, Holly and Dobie.
Vivian’s legacy is one of deep compassion, timeless love, and strength beyond measure. Her warmth and generosity shaped generations, and her impact will be felt forever.
Love you most!
Family will hold a private memorial. Burial of Jack and Vivian Oliver will be held on August 13th, 2025, on which would have been Vivian’s 90th birthday.