I have been thinking, lately, of how much the family depends on Velma.  The more I thought about it the more I realized that I need to write a note on what I have seen and how much I appreciate the things she has done, particularly over the past few years.

Better to write it, now, while she is alive and we can give meaningful thanks, than to wait and give it at a memorial service, and by then, I am know there will be a lot more that can be added to this – particularly by other family members and friends. 

Many years ago I had a conversation with Carla’s (and Velma’s) Dad.  We were talking about his daughters, he pointed out that while others would be embraced over their troubles and everyone wanted to help them, they would go to Velma every time THEY needed help and forget that she too could, at times, use some hugs.  – paraphrased of course, but that was the jest of it.

Velma and Wayne (her late husband) lived in Bend and while the rest of the family was elsewhere, they seemed to take on the duties of the care of family.

When her father became unable to care for himself, Wayne and Velma were there for her mother and youngest sister who has disabilities. 

When her mother past away Velma took command over her sister and made sure she received(s) the proper care and keeping her active with the family.

She spent several years nursing Wayne after his stroke and was there with him at all times, helping him through his illness.

When he passed away it was Velma who was the strong person for not only their children, but the children of his previous marriage and his sister.

When Chris became ill and came down into the lower states for the last time, it was Velma that opened up her home to them and the rest of us (over 30 people)so we could spend time with him.

When Chris passed away, it was Velma that helped Vivian through the loss and helped her plan the memorial service.

As Mary was getting weaker, Velma and Viv spent time with her trying to help her get her things squared away.  When Mary passed away the two of them helped Gary with the arrangements and paperwork that follows, helping him with the memorial service and making sure he was okay.

It was Velma who made sure the potluck after the service was set up and there was plenty of food for everyone.

She is keeping herself available for Gary and her youngest sister.

Now, it is Velma that is helping Viv through her latest struggles, making sure she is getting the medical help and the mental support that is necessary for her recovery.  She is with her daily.

Velma is that person that others turn to – as her father told me – she is a solid rock and can be counted on to help others.

Romans 16:1-2 I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea:

² That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also.

Such could be said of Velma, by the members of her family and her friends.

Later, Art :-)