Velma Villani

Velma Louise Villani, 83, passed with peace and grace into God's arms on March 11, 2015. She was born on September 18th in Wray, Colorado, to Fay (Pendleton) and Maurice Garton. She was the fourth of four children (brother Morey, sisters Ruth and Lois). The family lived in Wray until Velma was in the 4th grade, and then moved to Denver. She graduated from North High School. Her father was a Mason and she was involved with the Job's Daughters International association. Her first job was working at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal, where she met the man she would marry, Sam Villani. They wed in 1953 and honeymooned in Grand Lake, Colorado. The happy couple was blessed with three children; Debbie, Sam and Gary. Velma was a stay at home mom, and very devoted to her family. They spent vacations going fishing and relaxing in the Colorado Rockies. One of the family traditions was Sunday spaghetti and meatball dinners which took place in Frederick, Colorado with the extended Villani family and later at their Aurora home. After raising her children, she began work as a teacher's assistant for Eastridge elementary school where she provided guidance ("Play Nice") and encouragement to many students. Velma was an avid Broncos fan and enjoyed doing crossword puzzles. She was a very faithful member of Faith Presbyterian Church for many years, participating in Primetimers and Jeremiah Gals. She is survived by daughter Debbie (Rick), sons Sam (Tina), Gary (Marguerite); grandchildren: Samson (Laura), Jess (Faryn), Jeanna (Ryan), Nick, Julia; great grandchildren: Zane, Caleb, Josiah, Daniel, David; and sisters Ruth and Lois. She was predeceased by her loving husband Sam, grandchild Lauren, brother Morey, and parents Fay and Maurice. She will be always remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend whose greatest priority was the happiness of others. Her wealth of patience, caring and sense of humor leaves us rich in memories.

A Memorial will be held in Velma's honor on Friday, March 20, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at Faith Presbyterian Church - 11373 East Alameda Avenue, Aurora, CO 80012.