Melania Trump's Mother, Amalija Knavs, Passes Away at 78 Following Illness
Melania Trump's mother, Amalija Knavs, fondly remembered and cherished, passed away at 78 after bravely battling an illness that started in late 2023 A profound loss that leaves a void in the hearts of those touched by her remarkable life
Melania Trump Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images
Melania Trump announced on Tuesday, January 9, that her mother, Amalija Knavs, has passed away at the age of 78. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Trump described her mother as a strong, graceful, and devoted woman who will be deeply missed.
Donald Trump posted on social media Tuesday, expressing sadness over the passing of his mother-in-law and calling her an exceptional woman who will be deeply missed. Last month, the former President had mentioned that his mother-in-law was very ill and that Melania was with her at the hospital during the tough holiday season.
"[Melania] sends her love to everyone and she is familiar with about 95 percent of the people in the room," he said. "We just want to wish Amalija a speedy recovery." The illness Knavs was facing and the cause of death were not immediately disclosed.
Amalija Knavs and Viktor Knavs Alex Wong/Getty Images
Knavs was born in Slovenia in 1945. In 2018, she and her husband, Viktor, became naturalized citizens with Melania as their sponsor. According to reports, the couple resided on the upper floors of the White House during their son-in-law’s presidency and had been staying at Mar-a-Lago with the Trumps in recent years.
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Melania publicly discussed how her parents served as role models, commending their strong work ethic in her address to the 2016 Republican National Convention. "My graceful and industrious mother, Amalija, introduced me to the world of fashion and beauty," she stated. "My father, Viktor, instilled in me a love for entrepreneurship and adventure. Their honesty, kindness, and wisdom continue to influence my love for family and America."
Melania Knavs is survived by her husband, daughter Ines Knauss, and grandson Barron. The Trumps welcomed Barron into the family in 2006. Donald also has children Donald Jr., Ivanka, and Eric with his late ex-wife, Ivana Trump, and daughter Tiffany with ex-wife Marla Maples.
