Velma Louise Pfannekuchen

The evening of October 19 saw the passing of a lovely lady. Velma peacefully gave up her life on this earth, calmly going to sleep. She is gone to a better place to join those who have gone before.

Velma Pfannekuchen was born on February 7, 1915, to Ernest and Carrie Weber in Joel, Idaho, fifth of six children. She attended Moscow Idaho High School. In 1934 in Ritzville, WA. while helping her sister-in-law she met and married a local farmer, Ted Pfannekuchen. They ran the farm together for 40 years. She was especially proud of her large vegetable and fruit garden in the summer and the products she canned every fall. She also loved her flowers especially roses and African violets. In 1942, their only child, Rochelle was born and raised on the farm.

In 1976 they sold the farm and moved to Everett, WA, to be near Rochelle her husband, David Salsman and above all, her joy of her life, grandson, Curtis. In December 1994, Velma's husband, Ted died due to cancer and injuries from a fall. Velma was a very strong, capable and stub-born lady who continued to live in her own home taking care of everything and enjoying her life. She thoroughly enjoyed her 100th birthday, February 7 2015; celebrated with relatives and friends. Unfortunately a few days later, following joint surgery, she was no longer able to care for herself.

She continued to stay in her own home but cared for by 24/hr caregivers. We are eternally grateful to the crew of caregivers who took loving care of Velma for 2 1/2 years, in particular, Margaret, Maribell Jason and Lily.

She is predeceased by her husband, Theodore (Ted); her five siblings, two nieces and a nephew.

She is survived by her daughter, Rochelle Salsman, son-in-law, David and grandson, Curtis, who is currently in Afghanistan. She also has four generations of nieces and nephews who all call her Aunty Velma to this day.

In lieu of flowers please make a contribution to the Red Cross for hurricane relief.