Velma Mae French

Velma Mae French 84, passed away at home surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, Feb. 23, 2012, following an extended valiant fight against cancer.

She was born July 12, 1927, in Sturgis, S.D., to Roy and Blanche Ness. Velma married Marshall (Marty) French Oct 19, 1947, in the Presbyterian Church in Sturgis. They later moved to Washington state with their expanding family and finally settled in Electric City. Velma was active in Eagles and the American Legion Auxiliary. She enjoyed traveling but always enjoyed returning home to her favorite occupation of being wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Velma loved working in the yard with her flowers, bowling, playing pool, singing, playing her guitar, accordion or piano, knitting, crocheting, tending to her koi goldfish and being with her family.

Velma was preceded in death by her loving husband of 44 years Marty (1992) and her son Larry (2011).

Velma is survived by her children Vel Etta Walker residing in Electric City, Terry French of Federal Way, Gary French of Electric City and Marilyn McDowell of Spokane. Her in-laws include Dale Walker, Diann French, Jeannie French, Wayne McDowell and Nancy French (married to Larry), 12 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

At Velma’s request, her remains will be laid to rest with her husband Marty (Marshall) in the Black Hills National Cemetery in Sturgis at a date to be determined later.

A joint celebration of life will be held for Velma and her son Larry, March 17, from 2-4 p.m., at the Banks Lake Bible Church, 25 School Street, Electric City, and is open to all friends and family.

Velma’s family requests that any donations be made in her name to the Grand Coulee Senior Center or Cancer Center Northwest in Spokane. Strate Funeral Home of Grand Coulee, is honored to be serving Velma and Larry’s Family.