Velda Irene Shewman

Velda Irene (Dillon) Shewman was born on November 1, 1915 in Corning, Iowa to Jesse and Ada (Over) Dillon. She grew up and attended school in the Corning area. Velda was a graduate of Corning High School, class of 1934. On April 21, 1934 she eloped and married Cecil Oren Shewman in Oregon, Missouri. Besides being a mother of two and a homemaker she was a bookkeeper for the family construction business. Velda enjoyed painting, dancing to "Big Band" music, and reading. She also loved traveling. She spent many hours in the car between Iowa and Colorado. For forty odd years she and Cecil flew or drove to Florida for a portion of the winter. She also spent time at Gulf Shores, Alabama. She often called herself a "Waterfront Gertie". She had a special affinity for trains, planes, oil wells, and lighthouses. She was a past president and longtime member of the Knoxville Women's Club. Velda was a 50 year member of the Rebekah Lodge. Velda passed away at the Knoxville Community Hospital on Thursday, May 26, 2011 at the age of 95 years, six months, and 25 days. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Cecil; three brothers; and four sisters. Velda's greatest love and interests were in her family. She is survived by her two children Evelyn (Dick) Dwigans of Knoxville and Ron (Jan) Shewman of Racine, Wisconsin; grandchildren: Corrine (Chuck) Raisch of Loveland, Co, Dave (Sidinia) Dwigans of Knoxville, Laura Moore, Dan (Sheryl) Shewman all of Littleton, Co, Angela (Dr. Ib) Thostrup of Racine, WI, Julie McDonald of New York, NY, and Scott (Dr. Diane) Bellman of Seattle, WA. Velda is also survived by her great grandchildren: Mikayla (Darryl), Rick (Jessi), Britta, Addison, Bryce, Meghan, Jacob, Maya, Alyssa, and Olivia; and great- great grandchildren: Jack and Paislee; also several nieces and nephews. A celebration of life visitation for Velda will be held from 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M., Friday, June 10, 2011, at the Winfield-Evans-McCleery Funeral Home in Knoxville, with Velda's family present. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, June 11, 2011 at the Winfield-Evans-McCleery Funeral Home, with Pastor Vickie Steffes officiating. A private family burial at Graceland Cemetery will be held at a later date. In Lieu of flowers a memorial has been established to the Attica Methodist Church. Condolences may be sent to www.winfieldfh.com.

Velda Irene Shewman

November 1, 1915 - May 26, 2011