Ila Rae Veselka

Ila Rae Veselka, 87, of Corpus Christi, Texas, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2025. Ila was a devoted widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend. She graduated from WB Ray High School in 1955 and later went on to work as a supply clerk for the Corpus Christi Army Depot, where she dedicated 25 years of service before retiring in 1988.

On September 11, 1972, Ila married the love of her life, Walter E. Veselka, in Corpus Christi, Texas. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and family. Ila was a proud member of La Vernia United Methodist Church, where she found strength and comfort throughout her life.

Ila had a passion for travel, especially enjoying cruises with family and friends. She loved camping, dancing, and spending time with her family, especially her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was known for her warm smile, infectious laugh, and her love of cooking, often preparing meals for her family and friends with great care and joy.

A special day for Ila was being at home surrounded by family, laughing and enjoying each other’s company. She lived her life with love, joy, and a heart full of hope. Ila cherished her family above all else and loved a good home-cooked meal. She had a deep love for old country music, gospel hymns, and the colors blue and orange. Her greatest joy came from the laughter and presence of her grandchildren, whom she adored.

Ila will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her spirit of kindness, laughter, and love will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Walter E. Veselka Jr.; her parents, William Olan Shelton and Bertha Beatrice Shelton; her brother, William ‘Bill’ Shelton; her sister, Jimmie Louise Marshall; her sons, David G. Grabbs Sr., James O. Grabbs, and her twin sons who were born asleep; as well as her son-in-law, James Clark, and her daughters-in-laws, Denise Veselka, Buffie Veselka, and Lynda Grabbs.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Kimberly (Todd) House, Mary Clark; Sons, Walter (Karen) Veselka, Harvey (Vickie) Veselka and Michael Veselka; her 17 adored grandchildren and her 22 great grand children along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins as well as extended family and friends.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the staff at The Viera Senior Community and the Nurses on Wheels for their love and exceptional care during Ila’s final days.