A Heartfelt Farewell to a Beloved Mother: Remembering Amalija Knavs
The former first lady recently bid a sorrowful farewell to her mother, Amalija Knavs, at a private funeral in Palm Beach, Florida. The service was held at the Episcopal Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea, a stone's throw away from the Mar-a-Lago estate. A tearful eulogy was delivered by the former first lady, who paid tribute to her mother's nurturing nature and extraordinary love.
An Epitome of Elegance and Grace
Amalija Knavs, who left this world at the age of 78, was revered for her flair for fashion and her loving role as a grandmother to Barron Trump. Her daughter eulogized her as the epitome of a mother, wife, grandmother, and mother-in-law, speaking highly of her boundless love and devotion. She also expressed deep gratitude for the influences her mother had on her life, particularly in the fields of culinary arts and fashion.
Inspiring a Passion for Design
The former first lady shared how her mother's tales of glamorous travels and late-night sketching sessions were the seeds that grew her interest in design. Her mother's resilience and determination, juggling the demands of motherhood while pursuing her own ambitions in the fashion industry, were also highly praised. The enduring bond her mother created within the family was a testament to the power of true love.
Remembering a Special and Amazing Person
The former President also acknowledged the passing of his mother-in-law, describing Amalija as a special and amazing person. He credited her cooking for their son Barron's impressive height and expressed gratitude for the care she provided to the entire family.
Honoring a Life Well-lived
Friends and family attended the funeral, including Ivanka Trump, Tiffany Trump, and their spouses. Republican senators Rick Scott and Lindsey Graham were also present. Amalija, who lived in New York during the Trump presidency, was a familiar face at the White House, supporting the "Be Best" campaign and witnessing its launch in 2018.
A Journey from Slovenia to the U.S.
Amalija and her husband, Viktor, raised their daughters in Slovenia under Communist rule. The former first lady, who transitioned from Knavs to Knauss during her modeling career, settled in New York in 1996 and met her future husband in 1998. She later sponsored her parents' immigration to the U.S., and they became citizens in 2018.
The passing of a loved one is a deeply personal and emotional experience. The eulogy given for her mother reflects not only the pain of loss but also the cherished memories and lasting legacy of a woman who played a significant role in her family's life. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy and compassion during times of grief, regardless of political differences.
