Vera Darlene Walraven

Vera Darlene Walraven, 85, passed away on Monday, Nov. 26, 2007, at Coulee Community Hospital.

Vera was born in Andrix, Colo., on March 31, 1922, to Walter and Fannie Jolly. At the age of 14 she moved with her parents to Oregon and at the age of 19, she met and married her husband Carl, an M.P. in the Army. After several moves with the Army, they settled in the state of Washington, and eventually Moses Lake where they made their home. After Carl's death in 1983, she continued to care for the home until her health forced her to sell and reside with her daughter JoAnn in Federal Way until they all moved to Grand Coulee.

Vera is survived by her daughters; JoAan Graham and husband John of Grand Coulee; Dorothy Piercy and husband Ron of Moses Lake; and son Loyd Walraven of Cincinnati, Ohio, nine grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband Carl, she is preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Fannie, brothers; James, Casey, Carl and Albert "Buddy" Jolly, and sister; Nancy Jolly McGibbon, and one grandchild; Tammy Berry.

Vera's greatest love was her family. She enjoyed sewing, gardening, canning, camping and playing the guitar. She passed down her musical talents to her grandson Bruce, giving him his first bass guitar.

At the request of Vera, graveside services only will be held at the Pioneer Memorial Cemetery in Moses Lake on Friday, Nov. 30 at 2 p.m.

Strate Funeral Home is caring for the family.