at a red light in Citra, FL. Velden was born December 17, 1934, in Fairview, OK to Paul and Ruth Sheffield Colby.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his 4 siblings Vona, Verlyn, Vinton, and Veleta who was Velden’s twin sister, and his youngest son Chris Colby of Louisville, KY.
He graduated in 1953 from Cheyenne Valley Consolidated High School, then joined the U.S. Army and
served as a specialist 4th class of the 526th Armored Infantry, Fort Knox, Ky (1953-1955). While at Ft.
Knox, a friend introduced him to Jeanette Drury, whom he married and they had 5 children settling in
Louisville, KY.
Realizing early on he wanted to be his own boss, he enrolled in Kentucky College of Barbering,
graduating in 1958. Soon after he opened “Colby’s Barber Shop”. That suited him perfectly because he
loved people, he loved making friends, listening to their stories and telling his!
Time passed, lives changed and he eventually moved to Boyton Beach, FL, opening another “Colby’s
Barber Shop.” He became an avid dancer, dancing his way into the heart of Elaine Lee and she into
his. They could clear any dance floor even into his 80’s.
He ultimately realized his true dream of owning some land, orange trees, horses and doggies at his
aptly named “Happy Feet” homestead in Citra, FL. He was able to enjoy his “little piece of heaven” for
a large part of his retirement years.
He was kind beyond words, saw the good in everyone, was a hard worker and believed in the saving
grace given to us by God.
He is survived by his best friend and dance partner of 30 years Elaine Lee, his children Dennis Colby
of Boynton Beach, FL, Cheryl (John) Wellerding of Louisville, KY, Deana (Billy) Craycroft of Louisville
KY, Glen Colby of Reading MA, a daughter-in-law Kathleen Colby, 8 grandchildren Brent, Ryan,
Evelyn Grace, Ethan, Elias, Cooper, Gavin and Julia, and many other nieces, nephews, family and
friends.
His wishes were to have his body donated for research or to helping others.
A Celebration of his Life will be planned for friends and family. Expressions of sympathy may be made
in his honor to any US Veteran’s organization or an animal rescue center of your choice.
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