Internet offers condolences as Melania Trump's mother Amalija Knavs dies at age 78 after former first lady skips holiday to care for her

PALM BEACH, FLORIDA: Former first lady Melania Trump is grieving the loss of her beloved mother, Amalija Knavs, who passed away this week at the age of 78. Amalija, who immigrated to the United States and was a fixture by her daughter and son-in-law's side during their White House years, fell ill at the end of 2023, as reported by Daily Mail.

Her condition had worsened in recent weeks, even as Melania put her holiday plans on hold to devote herself to providing care. Upon hearing the sad news, the internet rushed to offer condolences and sympathy to the former first lady for her loss.

Amalija met her husband Viktor Knavs at a textile factory in Slovenia

Melania mourned the loss of her mother in a heartfelt tribute on Tuesday evening, January 9, as she wrote on X, "It is with deep sadness that I announce the passing of my beloved mother, Amalija."

She added, "Amalija Knavs was a strong woman who always carried herself with grace, warmth, and dignity. She was entirely devoted to her husband, daughters, grandson, and son-in-law. We will miss her beyond measure and continue to honor and love her legacy."

Amalija, who was born in 1945 in what is now Slovenia, spent her early years working on her family's onion farm before taking a job at a textile factory, which is where she met her husband Viktor Knavs.

The couple had two daughters, Ines and Melania. According to Melania, she was greatly inspired by her mother's strong work ethic and sense of style and beauty.

After Melania and her sister Ines built careers in fashion modeling in Milan, Melania moved to the United States in 1996. She said that even as she adjusted to life in a new country, her parents provided invaluable support.

"My elegant and hardworking mother Amalija introduced me to fashion and beauty," she remarked in a 2016 speech. "My father, Viktor, instilled in me a passion for business and travel. Their integrity, compassion and intelligence reflect to this day on me and for my love of family and America."

Internet mourns death of Amalija alongside the former first family

The Knavs couple eventually followed their daughter to America. They went through the immigration process, becoming US citizens in 2018. As in-laws to the former president, they maintained an unusually high profile over the years, frequently appearing by Melania's side at White House events and other functions.

Upon hearing the news of Amalija's passing, internet commenters were quick to offer words of comfort to the former first lady. One X user conveyed, "Deep prayers for you and your entire family."

Another heartfelt message read, "Your mother raised an amazing daughter Melania. I’m sure she’s immensely proud of you and will always be watching over you and your family with love. RIP Amalija."

Expressing solidarity, a user shared, "America is mourning with you, Melania. There are never words to describe these moments." Recognizing the profound impact of parental loss, another individual conveyed their sympathy, saying, "I’m so sorry. Parents are extremely precious and the loss is great."

In moments marked by solemnity, prayers, and thoughts extended from various users, as one wrote, "Prayers. It’s so difficult losing a parent," and another prayed, "May your beloved mother rest in peace."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.