Violet "Vi" Ullyot, long-time wife of Komets' coach, general manager and owner Ken Ullyot, died Saturday morning at age 87.
She moved to Fort Wayne with her husband in 1958 when he was named the team's coach. While Ken took care of the team business on the ice with the players, Vi Ullyot quickly became the first lady and matriarch of Komets hockey, often helping take care of the team members' wives and families off the ice. Her husband may have been the boss of the team, but she was the person everyone turned to when they needed advice or help with trouble. She was part of the glue that turned the franchise into a family.
"I couldn't have done any of this without her," her husband said.
They were married Aug. 15, 1942 in Askwith, Saskatchewan. She was originally from Vancouver.
Ullyot was known for her easy laugh, generosity and excellent cooking, and until last year, loved attending most home games. She always dressed up for the games, usually had a drink in her hand and always had time for any fan who stopped by to chat. They weren't fans to her but friends. Then she'd go home and give her husband a full scouting report on the game.
She is survived by her husband, her daughter Donna (Steve) Thompson and son Ron (Laurie) of Orlando, Fla., four grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and one great, great grandchild. Donna because a nurse and Ron Ullyot is a former Komets player and coach. Ken and Ron Ullyot are one of the very few father-son combinations whose names are inscribed on the International Hockey League's Turner Cup.
Services are pending.
Comments
Violet Ullyot, was a very special woman. In the time I had cared for her I grew to love her and cherish all the memories she had shared about the Komets and all her friends. She loved everyone and everyone loved her. I am going to miss my "Maudy"! My deepest sympathy to the family and friends.
I'm so sorry for those of you who knew her. She sounds like someone that I wish I had known. I'm sorry I missed her.
What a very fine "Lady". She will be missed by all who knew her. If there ever were a title of Mrs. Komet it was Vi Ullyot. She loved the Players, the Coaches and the entire organization. She truly was the ultimate Komet fan. Best wishes to her family.
Blake- Any word on the services for Vi?
Vi also known as Nana Vi will be missed by so many people in hockey. She Touched my life so much and I will have so many special memories of her taking us to games and various events in hockey. She was always there for her grandchildren. She was our Hockey Nana. I will love her and miss her forever. She can now rest in peace with the angels. I will cherish my Grandmas memory forever.
They are still working on it, but it's looking like Wednesday meet and greet and late Thursday service. I'll let you know when I know.