Vera V. Kousman

Vera Vanetta Kousman, age 77, of Harker Heights, passed away in her home Tuesday, March 20. A visitation has been planned for Friday, March 23 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home of Killeen with the rosary to be recited at 7:00 pm. Services are scheduled for 10:00 am Saturday, March 24, at St. Paul Chong Hasang Catholic Church in Harker Heights with burial to follow at Killeen Memorial Park.

Vera was a resident of Harker Heights, Texas for 26 years. Vera passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her family after losing her courageous battle with cancer. Vera was born in Presho, and raised in Fedora, South Dakota (Minor County). She graduated from Fedora High School in 1953. Vera was the 8th of 10 children born to the late Fred and Goldie Stransky. Vera was also the beloved wife of Donald H. Kousman for 57 years.

Vera was preceded in death by her parents Fred and Goldie, her brothers Arthur, Albert, and Raymond, and also by her son Duane Kousman.

Vera is survived by her husband, Donald, 4 sisters, Evelyn, May, Vivian, and Vina; two brothers, Jack and Bill, and six children Sandy Kousman, Donna Kemp, Joseph Kousman, Lois Pratt, Phyllis Washburn, and Charlene Whitley; 14 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great- grandchildren, and countless other family and friends. After years of raising children, Vera went to work for AFFEES where she was employed for 17 years at which time she retired. Vera’s hobby was reading and she loved it. Vera was also a member of the American Legion Auxillary and an active member with the 40&8 LaFems. Vera held numerous offices throughout the years and at the time of her death, she was Grand Madame President Grand du Texas for the 40&8 LaFems. Vera truly loved this organization. Vera’s family was the most important part of her life. She dedicated 57 years of her life to raising children with traditional values. Vera welcomed everyone in her life with a hug and a smile no matter who they were. She was the most selfless person in everything she did. We were all blessed in knowing her.

Vera touched the lives of many people with her warm smile and generous heart. To her children and those that knew her she was the epitome of selfless love. Vera will be forever missed by her husband, family, and friends. The emptiness left by her passing can never be filled in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Scott and White Hospice Care Services.