Velda Joyce Dewald, a life-long resident of AuGres, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by the loving care of her family and hospice on Sunday, June 23, 2024, age 92 years.
Velda was born at her family home in AuGres on January 8, 1932, to the late Edward and Bessie Willett. She attended AuGres Sims High School where she met her high school sweetheart, Alloyes “Al” Dewald. Velda and Al married on July 9, 1949, in Standish, Michigan. A short time later, Velda and Al began a family of their own, and she was blessed with the opportunity to raise their 5 children at home, instilling the values of hard work and Christian ethics.
Velda was also active with her husband in the family businesses, Al’s Shell Gas Station in AuGres and The Corner Market also in AuGres. Velda participated in many day-to-day responsibilities at the businesses, but primarily she maintained the accounting and bookkeeping measures. Velda absolutely loved being a mom and she remained so active in her children’s lives with sporting events and extracurricular activities. Family vacations to their cabin in the Upper Peninsula were among her most cherished times. Velda also enjoyed her quilting and giving her beautiful handmade gifts to her family. Being outdoors and keeping her colorful flower gardens pristine brought her peace and happiness as well. Her lovely bright smile, contagious laugh, and heart full of love will be forever remembered by everyone who knew and loved her!
Velda is survived by her children, Kevin (Pam) Dewald of AuGres, Debra (Dave) Pockrandt of AuGres, Todd Dewald (Jennifer) of AuGres, Troy Dewald (Megan Browne) of AuGres, and daughter-in-law, Cathy Dewald of AuGres; 9 grandchildren, Keith Jr., Shawna, Traci, Brent, Michelle, Janelle, Tanner, Megan, and Zachary; 8 great grandchildren, Cole, Hanna, Gina, Brooke, Hailey, Mikayla, Eli, and Huxson; 4 great great-grandchildren, Calista, Zendaya, Kaia, and Peighton; 1 brother, Gerry (Millie) Willett in AuGres; 1 sister-in-law, Nancy Mechura of Swartz Creek; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Velda is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 69 years, Alloyes “Al” Dewald; a son, Keith Dewald; a grandson, Ryan Dewald; 6 brothers, Francis, Dale, Harold, Ray, Gaylan, and George Willett; and 1 sister, Arlene Bladecki.
Velda’s family will welcome friends for a time of visitation on Thursday from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at the Buresh Funeral Home in AuGres. Funeral services are scheduled for Friday, June 28th at 11:00 AM at the funeral home with interment and committal prayers to follow at the Linwood Cemetery in AuGres. Friends may join the family for a time of visitation at the funeral home on Friday morning from 10:00 AM until the time of her funeral service.
An online guest registration is available to leave a message of love and support for Velda’s family at www.bureshfuneralhomes.com.
