In Loving Memory of

Victoria "Vicki" Vaitkunas

(Maiden: Van Vliet)
May 19, 1938 - Dec 8, 2024

Vicki Vaitkunas was an energetic, fun-loving, and inspirational leader with a commitment to better her community wherever she went. She was born in Berkeley, California, to Maury and Virginia Van Vliet. In her early years Vicki lived in Vancouver with her family, eventually settling in Edmonton. She graduated from Strathcona High School in Edmonton and earned a Bachelor of Science from Oregon State University.

While at OSU she became a proud member of Delta Gamma Fraternity. Vicki’s career began in San Diego as an outdoor educator. She spent holidays in Edmonton where she met her husband, Joe Vaitkunas. They married in 1962 and settled in Edmonton, where Vicki became deeply involved in community service. She was a “professional volunteer,” leading and contributing to numerous organizations including The Junior League of Edmonton, Delta Gamma, NAIT, Family and Community Support Services Association of Alberta (FCSSA) and the Fort Edmonton Foundation, where she served as Executive Director.

From the beginning, Vicki was a talented athlete and participated in swimming, basketball, golf, tennis, badminton and aqua fit. She competed in tennis at two World Masters Games. Vicki was an active member of the Royal Glenora Club, participating in their sports. She served on many committees including the organizing committees for international tennis tournaments. Vicki was also active in bridge clubs for over 60 years. Vicki and Joe shared a lifelong passion for adventure and were able to enjoy many awesome travels to near and faraway places. This included regular travel to visit their children and their families residing far from Edmonton.

Her honors include the Delta Gamma Cable and Oxford Awards, Junior League Sustainer Award, NAIT’s Distinguished Friend of the Institute, Province of Alberta Centennial Medal, Edmonton Historical Board Recognition Award, SAGE Public and Non-Profit Category Award, FCSSAA Premier’s Award, and the Queen Elizabeth Platinum Jubilee Medal.

Vicki is survived by her husband, Joe; her children: Ginger, Davis, and Vanessa; and her six grandchildren.

A Celebration of Vicki’s Life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on January 6, 2024 at the Royal Glenora Club (11160 River Valley Rd NW, Edmonton, AB). If individuals so desire they can give to the charity of their choice, help someone in their community, or just raise a glass and toast to friendship.