A Memorial service for 1941 Aquatennial Queen of the Lakes Eva (Brunson) Steiner took place on Tuesday in Minneapolis.
As the first Aquatennial Queen of the Lakes to reign over the festival, she embodied the Aquatennial spirit; being both regal and graceful. A Minneapolis resident, she continued to serve the community over the years as a member and volunteer of several organizations including the Jones-Harrison Residence, the Woman's Club of Minneapolis and Golden Valley Federated Women's Club.
Described as one who adored the Aquatennial, Eva stayed connected with past Aquatennial ambassadors by attending the Past Queens Reception during the Aquatennial Festival each year. She enjoyed reminiscing with fellow alumni and welcoming the newest former Queen of the Lakes into the group. 2015 Queen of the Lakes Laura Swartz (pictured with Eva) remembers her as, "beautiful and elegant in every way."
Pam Albinson, Queen of the Lakes 1962 and Aquatennial Historian, noted Eva's passing as an, "end of an era because she is the last of the first royal party for America’s Greatest Summer Festival. Eva, along with founders Win Stephens, Tom Hastings, and Neil Messick brought dignity and grace plus excitement to our city."
Eva passed away quietly on November 21. The Aquatennial Ambassador Organization sent flowers by Donato's Floral to the Memorial service on behalf of AAO's Members, Alumni and Supporters. Eva requested memorials be made in her name to the AAO Aquatennial Ambassador Scholarship Program. Checks made out to the Aquatennial Ambassador Organization may be sent to:
Aquatennial Ambassador Organization 100 South 1st Street PO Box 580737 Minneapolis, MN 55458
Memorials can also be made online at www.aquatennialambassadors.com/scholarship.
The Mission of the AAO is to inspire young women to achieve extraordinary futures by providing professional development opportunities through networking and mentoring.
For more information about the Minneapolis Aquatennial Ambassador Organization, please visit http://www.aquatennialambassadors.com.