Velma E. Dethample's Obituary
Velma E. Dethample
Velma’s long courageous battle with cancer ended September 20, 2014. She far outlived the Dr.’s expectations. Velma was born on January 31, 1931 to Evert Cook and Hattie Daughhette Cook in Mattoon, Illinois. She was the 5th of 8 children. Older brothers – Fredrick, Melvin, Kenneth , and Lester Cook, younger sisters – Lois Pisell, Lea McGinnis and Wilma Mills.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur and son, Ken. Velma is survived by her children, Debbie (Daniel) Roberts, Rose (Larry) Dickinson, and Ed Dethample (Vicky); sisters Lea McGinnis and Wilma Mills; six grandchildren, Patrick (Gayle) Roberts, Josh (Gina) Roberts, Aaron Roberts, David (Renee) Dickinson, Jessica Dickinson, and Sarah Dickinson. Great grandchildren Ethan Roberts, Kaleb Roberts, Reese Roberts, Audrina Roberts, Sophia Roberts, Shyann Dickinson, Chloee Dickinson, and coming soon—twins (Tyler and Taylor) Dickinson, also many nieces and nephews.
Velma enjoyed traveling very much. She traveled the world with her husband, (the Army lifestyle). She was an energetic gardener. She enjoyed canning the fruits and vegetables that she grew. She made the most awesome SALSA!!! She was also an avid reader, enjoyed knitting and crocheting. She was well known for her sewing talent. She made many of our clothes growing up as well as countless Barbie and Ken doll clothes. (She lined the Barbie clothes – they will last forever.)
She enjoyed going out to lunches with the ladies that she met and volunteered with at the Fort Lewis Thrift Shop. (Velma volunteered for over 30 years). She especially enjoyed her time spent with friends, Connie and Marie.
Mom was a very determined woman who when she put her mind to something…she just did it and did it well.
A memorial service will be held at 1pm, Saturday at Lakewood New Hope Church, 9308 Meadow Rd. SW, Lakewood, WA 98499.
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