Vivian Leith

June 1, 1934 - December 25, 2018

Vivian Leith Passed away December 25, 2018. Vivian was an exceptional force of nature. She made huge impact on many peoples lives, especially those grieving her most closely: her husband, Stewart Skinner Hudnut; her children, and their spouses Jeffrey and Jodi Upin, David and Marissa Upin, Nan Upin and Ed Murphy; her grandchildren, Elliot, Aaron, Heather, and Emily Upin; her stepsons, Alec, Andrew, Parker Hudnut and their families; and her brother, Gerald Schwartz and his wife Heather Reisman. The only daughter of Lillian Arkin and Andrew O. Schwartz, Vivian grew up in Winnipeg Manitoba, and attended Mills College and the University of Minnesota. She earned a law degree from Hamline Law School, practicing law and working as an executive recruiter for many years in the Twin Cities. She and Stewart were very active in their Minneapolis, Winnetka, Santa Barbara and Windover communities where many joyful and enduring friendships were made and where Vivian served on many boards and clubs. In 2010, Vivian co-founded Hearts and Hands Minnesota to help vulnerable families with comfort and resources if their child is fighting a life threatening illness or has died. Vivian was an overachiever who traveled the world, was incredibly well read, a winning athlete, an accomplished painter, a charming hostess who created lovely homes and gardens where she welcomed friends and family with grace and style. She lived and loved with great heart, strength, instinct and generosity and will remain an adored wife, mother, sister, aunt, and friend forever. Funeral service will be held FRIDAY, December 28, 1 p.m. BET SHALOM CONGREGATION, 13613 Orchard Road, Minnetonka. Memorials preferred to Hearts and Hands Minnesota http://www.heartsandhandsmn.org Shiva on Saturday and Sunday, December 29 & 30, 7 p.m. at 5317 Ayrshire Boulevard, Edina.