In Loving Memory

"Violet" Yolanda Muto Dombrowski

98 years old

The children all called her Great Grandma Goose.

I first got to meet Grandma and Grandpa while dating Eddie. Eddie took me to the shop to meet Grandpa and Grandma. Grandma always prepared a large delicious meal each time we were there and always sent us home with treats (usually chocolate) and flowers.

Grandma's opinion held a lot of weight in Eddie's eyes, and I knew that if she did not approve of me that I would never have the opportunity to be a Dombrowski. Well I fell in love with Eddie's grandparents. Without Eddie knowing, I would go LA and visit Grandpa and Grandma 1 to 2 times a month. I would sit and talk with them for hours. Grandma was full of stories about her life, childhood, the flower shop, and family. I enjoyed every moment with her and sure wish that I had written them down. Grandma was fun, loving, and a little bit sassy.

Everybody loved Eddie, especially me, I was head over heels for him. He was my prince charming and I loved him, I loved his family. I knew that Eddie was also deeply in love with me, however the analytical (Doctor) side of Eddie had cold feet. Grandma would tell me that she was going to keep me regardless of Eddie's fickleness. Good thing Eddie's feet warmed up because I wanted the whole package.

I always appreciated and valued the warm embrace they gave to me as I married into the family. The flowers at our wedding were fabulous, like something out of a movie. Orchids were everywhere and they filled the room and I know that each arrangement was made with love and joy.

It was a tremendous loss when Eddie passed away. I know that one of the hardest things Grandma did was make the arrangement for Eddie's casket. It was a beautiful piece and I know that it was made with love and tears.

Through all the years I have felt the loving arms of Grandma Goose. She has always kept me in her embrace and has embraced my children. My children often got cards and gifts from her. My children especially loved the time when Great Grandma Goose came up to Lake Arrowhead for Christmas. They could hardly wait for her to wake up each morning. They loved singing to her, reading to her, and talking with her. I would walk in the room and the would be curled up around her in a blanket.

Grandma left a great legacy. There are so many wonderful and funny stories about her that I wish I could share all of them. She was a great wife, great mother, and great woman. When I think of the scripture that says "by their fruits ye shall know them", her family are the greatest people I know. I feel privileged to know them and lucky to be among them.