We Remember
VELTE, Vera
October 11, 1927 — March 24, 2013
Born 11 October 1927, in Zagreb, Croatia; Died 24 March 2013, in Kelowna, BC.
Vera’s death resulted from injuries sustained in a fall down a staircase. In the 1960s, Vera performed major roles in several German opera houses. Her career climaxed in May of 1969 with a concert performance of Francis Poulenc’s Gloria in Chicago’s Symphony Hall. Joining Vera in this concert were the Lewis College Chorale and members of the Chicago Symphony orchestra. Later Vera became a data-entry supervisor for the Ontario Teachers Superannuation Commission. Arriving in the Okanagan in 1997, she became active in the Society for Learning in Retirement (SLR) and the Kelowna chapter of the British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BCSPCA). Vera is survived by her husband Charles, her daughter Sanja of Solon, Iowa, her son Brad of Holland Landing, Ontario, and three granddaughters, Maja, Bijou, and Ashley. Vera’s demise was on the 47th anniversary of her marriage to Charles and on the very eve of her planned move to the United States. Thus, Vera had already said her good-byes to friends and associates while still alive. A memorial service will be held in Iowa for family and friends at a later date. Persons interested in making a donation in Vera’s memory should consider any of the following:
• Society for Learning in Retirement (SLR), 1434 Graham Street, Kelowna, V1Y 3A8
• BCSPCA, Kelowna Chapter, 3785 Casorso, Rd., Kelowna, 250-861-7722
• Missionary outreach of Grace Lutheran Church, 1162 Hudson Rd., West Kelowna,
250-769-5685.
For those wishing to send a condolence, photos or share memories, may do so by
scrolling down this page to the area called “Share Your Condolences”.
Dear Charles I am very sorry for your loss. May God bless you and keep you . Sincerly Fran Schmidt,one of your choir friends.
It is with heavy hearts that we hear of Vera’s sudden passing. We did have a chance to say farewell as she was leaving for Iowa but little did we know that she would be leaving for her final Home instead. Charles, we do want to extend our sincere condolences and want you to know that we too will miss her and will always remember her many smiles, good nature and special loving hugs. God be with you. Clayton and Helene Hack
Charles and Sonya,
I want to express my deepest sympathies to you both -May God comfort you and guide your steps in this time of loss. Vera was an amazing woman and I will never forget her.
In CHrist,
Deni
My deepest condolences to you Charles, Sonya and Brad – yes, it was a shock we will remember her as a very special lady and friend – – MAY GOD BLESS YOU NOW AND ALWAYS – – Wilma
Dear Chuck & Family:
Peter and I were very saddened to hear of Vera’s sudden passing. Our most heartfelt and sincere condolences at this time of sorrow. Prayers and thoughts are with you to comfort and console as you grieve the loss of your wife, mother and grandmother.
It was always a very special evening when we would see you both at the Kelowna Community Theater.
Anna Vigilante-Meyes & Peter Meyes
We are both so sad to hear of Vera’s passing. We have fond memories of our time together in Toronto.
Dear Charles & Family,
We are so sorry to hear about Vera. May God hold you close, comfort & strengthen you during this sad time.
Blessings,
Mimi(Choir)& Brent Keith
Jessie and I send are best to you and Sanja during this sad time. We love you and will miss you both. Vera always brightened my day with her special greetings and her hug – I’ll never forget Vera’s warmth, hospitality and compassion.
We were so sorry to hear of Vera’s passing. She was a very special lady and will always remain in our hearts.
Dear Charles and Family
So Sorry to hear Vera’s passing, we will always remember her vibrant happy personality, we will miss her so much. God Bless you all.
Love Irene and Peter
Dear Charles and family. Easter offers hope to those who grieve. Hard to believe vibrant Vera is no longer in this home. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
To Charles & Family
Easter offers hope to those who grieve. Hard to believe that vibrant Vera is no longer in this home. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Dear,Dear Charles!
Although our acquaintance was brief; one meaningful dinner at Gintrand’s,you and your wife have left an irreplaceable impression on us.
The vibrant girl from Zagreb with a naughty mind and live spirit will be truly missed. This Dalmatian celebrates her life with the hope of resurrection in the new system. Not knowing her for a long time, for me,Vera represented resilience and passion.I am truly sorry that you have lost a friend.
I was thinking about her on the flight back to Canada. I thought that she would get a kick out of me serenading her in my Dalmatian suit.
It was only hours later that I learned from our friends Shaun and Sara abut Vera’s passing.
I wish you calmness and peace of heart in your time of mourning.
With Heart Felt Love,
Vedran and Nichole
Dear Charles & family,
It is with heartfelt sadness that we acknowledge Vera’s passing. Although we knew her briefly her amazingly vibrant & colorful personality has left a memorable and lasting impression. We can only imagine the vast & empty space her passing will leave for all who loved her.
May your memories comfort you…
Sadly,
Alex & Gai Michie
Charles & Family
Although we met only for a few hours, Vera’s generous spirit and overwhelming love of life will always be remembered. It was a truly a delight to meet you both and Vera will no doubt be missed by many. My sincere and deepest condolences.