Violet Mary (Alibrando) Allwein

Violet (Vi) Mary Allwein (Alibrando) age 90, passed away August 5, 2024. Born April 30, 1934 on the South Side of Columbus to Sicilian immigrants Santas and Francesco Alibrando; Vi was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. It is a daunting task to say what Violet meant to us– throughout her life she gave endless love to her ever-expanding family, bringing a genuine warmth, sincere kindness - and sharp wit - to each and every interaction.

Violet grew up working with her brothers, Frank, Guito, and Paul, in her Dad’s grocery store – occasionally sneaking a cigar out in the back alley. She made many lifelong friends while attending St. Mary’s High School in German Village. After graduation, during spring break 1956, Vi locked eyes with Donald (Don) Edward Allwein at Hyatt’s, a Florida juice bar. Although she soon returned to Columbus, their love grew as they exchanged letters. Eventually, Don made his way to Columbus. They married May 11, 1957 at Corpus Christi Church, and became partners, travel companions and best friends.

Vi and Don had 6 sons together: Steven, Gary, Michael, Christopher, Timothy, and Andrew.  Although some families in the neighborhood had more total kids – only Violet and Don were blessed with just boys. Violet embraced motherhood enthusiastically –enjoying both the challenges and joys of raising a family and being an active member of her parish and social communities. She enjoyed music and often sang along with the radio perched on the kitchen counter. Violet and Don were happily married for 67 years and their enduring and loving partnership is an inspiration to the whole Allwein family, whose legacy continues with their 18 grandchildren and 38 great-grandchildren.

Violet worked at the front desk of the Catholic Diocese of Columbus downtown office for several years and her friendly charm and quick wit were refreshing to all who entered the building. Vi was a longtime member of St. Catharine parish in East Columbus and for many years served as a lector. Throughout her life, her enthusiasm as a mother and grandmother never wavered – she was often one of the first family members at the hospital to welcome each new arrival. She was a meticulous shopper with an impeccable sense of style that she employed to the benefit of her husband, sons and grandchildren.

Vi and Don enjoyed extensive travel throughout Europe together, often accompanied by close friends. Their adventures brought them to a myriad of places such as Spain, Ireland, and Vi’s ancestral country of Italy – with a visit to Vi’s family hometown of Santa Lucia del Mela on the island of Sicily.

Up until her final days Violet was always happy to receive her family, interested in their lives, and ready to share a meal. For many birthdays, including her 90th birthday, she loved visiting Planks on Parsons, where she was often greeted by name. Vi loved her family with a simple but determined love. She could get annoyed with you - and you would know it - she would get mad at you, and you would hear about it - but she loved all of us unconditionally and accepted us the way we were –occasionally slipping in a suggestion for improvement! She will be missed fiercely and we are so blessed to have experienced such a wonderful example of how to love and treat others.

She is preceded in death by her brothers Guito, Paul, and Frank. She is survived by her loving husband of 67 years, Donald Edward Allwein, and her sons, Steven, Gary (Christina), Michael, Christopher (Elisabeth), Timothy (Meg), and Andrew (Kate), as well as 18 grandchildren and 38 great-grandchildren. The family will receive visitors from 2–5 pm on Sunday, August 11, 2024 at Egan-Ryan Funeral Home,403 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215.The Funeral Mass will be held Monday, August 12, 2024 at 10 am at St. Catharine Church, 500 S. Gould Rd, Columbus, OH 43209.

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