Vivan Mae Macey Caviness

1923 - 2015

VIVIAN MAE MACEY CAVINESS Our sweet mother, Vivian Mae Macey Caviness fell asleep peacefully at her home on October 20th, 2015 following a sudden stroke. Her daughters were at her side, just as she would have wanted. Vivian was born in Denver, Colorado on January 3rd, 1923. Her mother preferred the sunshine, so the family of six children packed up and moved to Southern California. There young Vivian grew up surrounded by family including her aunts, uncles and cousins. Vivian had a beautiful voice and loved to sing. It was actually in her school choir that Donald Caviness noticed her and instantly knew "she was the one." They fell in love and were married in 1943 while Donald was serving our country in the United States Army. After his service, they moved to San Francisco where Donald obtained his Doctorate of Podiatry. In 1953 they moved their young family to Chico where Donald practiced podiatry for 45 years and Vivian devoted her life to raising their three daughters. Being a mother brought the greatest joy and meaning in her life. In her daughters' words "she was the best." Vivian embodied style, beauty and grace. Her zest for life was obvious to all who knew her. It was common to hear, "she's something special". Vivian was very athletic enjoying snow and water skiing and could do the splits until her dying day. She took up golf in her early sixties - a game that became a passion of hers for 30 years. For Vivian's 90th birthday her children surprised her with a bright red golf cart - a perfect match for her personality and passion for life. Friends and strangers alike were in awe of her ageless and vibrant spirit. She was always beautifully groomed for the day. And for her it was never too early in the day for dessert, or anything chocolate. She was often in the kitchen whipping up something good to eat. Vivian was a woman of strong faith who loved her God, and lived an honorable life based on the principles she believed in. She was known as Mumzie, to her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and all of their friends. Vivian is survived by her three daughters Sandy Moran (Mike), Zinita Benson (Doug) and Shari Markoski (David); five grandchildren Melissa Nelsen (John) Melinda Benson-Valavanis (Alexa), Barrett Benson (Ashley), Macy and Shelby Wareham . There are also seven great-grandchildren the last of which is her name sake, Vivian Grace. Vivian is also survived by her brother Bud Macey and many nieces and nephews. Two years ago she was predeceased by Donald, her adoring husband of 70 years. A celebration of her life will be held on November 21, 2015 at 4:00 at the Chico Adventist Church located at 1877 Hooker Oak Avenue; Chico, CA Share your memories online at NewtonBracewell.com