Ingetrud Erna Alice Veltman

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the peaceful passing of Ingetrud Veltman on March 14, 2026, at the age of 90. Surrounded by her loving family at North Shore Hospice, Ingetrud left this world with grace, just as she had lived her life.

Born on May 11, 1935, in the quaint town of Tewswoos, Germany, Ingetrud was the cherished daughter of Martin and Anna Koepcke. Her journey was marked by resilience, warmth, and a steadfast dedication to those she loved. In 1985, she was blessed to marry the love of her life, Johan Veltman. Together, they shared 40 blissful years, creating a home filled with love and laughter in West Vancouver and cherishing winters spent in the sunlit embrace of Carlsbad, California.

Ingetrud's professional life was as vibrant as her personal one. For 27 years, she was a beloved presence at the White Spot restaurant on Georgia and Cordova Street in Vancouver. As a dedicated employee and hostess, she received numerous accolades, including the esteemed CKNW's Super-Service Award in August 1976. Her gift for conversation and her genuine interest in people touched the lives of all who crossed her path, making every encounter memorable.

Ingetrud and Johan shared a deep commitment to their community, demonstrated through their generous support of the Lions Gate Hospital Foundation. Their passion for this cause reflected their shared values and desire to make a positive difference in the world.

Outside of her professional and philanthropic endeavors, Ingetrud found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Her hands were rarely still, busy with the gentle art of knitting, crocheting, sewing, and needlepoint. Summers were spent navigating the waters on their boat, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of nature. She had an insatiable curiosity for political and news events, which she loved to discuss with friends and family alike.

Ingetrud was blessed with a large, loving family. Her legacy lives on with her nephew John Blake (spouse Septembre) and in her nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, who continue to carry forward her spirit of love and generosity.

The family will honor Ingetrud's wish for a private ceremony, celebrating her life in a manner befitting her quiet strength and grace. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the North Shore Hospice at lghfoundation.com/donate/, an organization that provided comfort and support beyond words in her final hours.

The Veltman family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at Home Instead for their unwavering support and love over the past years. Special thanks also to the dedicated staff at North Shore Hospice for their compassionate care during Ingetrud's final moments.

Ingetrud Veltman will be remembered for her kindness, her gentle spirit, and her unwavering dedication to her family and community. Though she may no longer walk among us, her light continues to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.