Rooted in Providence – love and devotion

Connie Gualano

(Note: The following blog was written by Connie Gualano, Planned Giving Manager/Grant Writer/Alumnae Coordinator for the Sisters of Providence)

Born in Mainland China, Viola and her mother moved to Taiwan during a turbulent time in China’s history. Viola’s Providence devotion began when she attended a convent school in Taiwan. After finishing her schooling, Viola was employed as a secretary but Providence came calling again.

Her former school, Providence English College, requested she return to be a teacher and she gladly agreed. She married, had children and lived in various countries such as Taiwan, Laos, Vietnam and Thailand. Viola became a popular fashion model, quickly being mentioned in the society columns of the Bangkok papers. Viola and her family came to the United States where Viola became the owner and manager of the China Rose restaurant in Arlington, Virginia.

Emil and Viola Klingenfus

Emil Klingenfus met and married Viola after both of their spouses passed away. During their time together, they often hosted Sisters of Providence in their home. Emil remembers, “The flight to and from Taiwan is a long and arduous trip. Viola was happiest when she was able to provide visiting sisters with certain items she thought they needed. Perhaps the travelers would need comfortable clothing items for the trip, and in case of an unexpected layover or delay, they might need some funds for unexpected expenses.”

In loving memory of Viola, who passed away in 2016, retired Army Col. Emil wanted to honor her love and devotion to the Sisters of Providence.

An endowment was established to provide income for travel and incidental expenses to and from Taiwan for sisters for the purpose of education, retreat, family visits or bereavement.

A secondary purpose is for travel and attendance for women in formation to attend programs relating to ongoing spiritual and religious formation. (Emil’s express intent is that our sisters fly in comfort for the long flights).

By establishing this endowment for the Sisters of Providence, Emil feels he has provided a “permanent memorial in memory of one who loved and admired Sisters of Providence and who was forever grateful for the role they played in her life.”

As a result of his generous memorial gift, Emil and Viola were recognized with the Rooted in Providence award at the 2018 Saint Mother Theodore Guerin Donor Dinner.