Velma Drabek

of Kadoka, South Dakota, died on Monday, March 15, 2004
at the Sandstone Manor in Spearfish at the age of 93

Velma V. Parke was born January 21, 1911 in Weta, South Dakota, the daughter of William C. and Fredrika (Schmidt) Parke. She grew up on a farm in Weta, and received her education in the Weta area.

Velma was united in marriage to John Drabek on February 15, 1931 in Kadoka, South Dakota. They made their home on a farm north of Belvidere, which they operated until moving into Kadoka in January 1954. While in Kadoka she was best known for her child care.

Velma enjoyed many hours of quilting with her friends in Kadoka. She also enjoyed crocheting afghans and growing a massive garden. Her greatest enjoyment in life was her family and treasured their many visits.

Her husband John preceded her in death on September 4, 1982.

Velma continued to reside in Kadoka until moving to Custer in 1989 and later Belle Fourche. In 1994, Velma moved to Spearfish, where she has since resided.

Velma was a member of the Kadoka Presbyterian Church, the Kadoka Lion’s Club, and the Kadoka Senior Citizens.

Grateful for having shared her life are her six children Irene Hansen and her husband Philip of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Iola Kezar of Custer, Richard Drabek and his wife Joyce of Belle Fourche, Robert Drabek and his wife Bev of Rapid City, Margaret Thomas of Colorado Springs, and Marly Mechaley and her husband Joe of Spearfish; twenty-three grandchildren; thirty-five great-grandchildren; numerous great-great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends.

In addition to her husband John, Velma was preceded in death by a grandson Tony Mechaley in 1986; a

grandson Garr Drabek in 1996; her parents; four brothers Irving, Clarence, Myron, and Merle; and two sisters Elsie Gilchrist and Bessie Leffler.

The family would like to express their profound gratitude to the staff at Sandstone Manor for their special attention, care, and compassion to our mom.

Visitation was held 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 18, at the Rush Funeral Chapel in Kadoka, and one hour preceding the services at the church on Friday.

Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m. Friday, March 19, at the Presbyterian Church in Kadoka, with Pastor Gary McCubbin officiating.

Interment will be in the Kadoka Cemetery.

A memorial is established.

FUNERAL SERVICES
Friday, March 19, 2004 2:00 p.m.
Presbyterian Church
Kadoka, South Dakota
CLERGY
Pastor Gary McCubbin
MUSIC
Lyndy Ireland – Joyce Wheeler
"In The Garden"
"Beyond The Sunset"
USHERS
Janet Hansen – Geri Drabek
PALLBEARERS
Gregg Drabek – Scott Drabek
Keith Thomas – Shane Mechaley
Mitch Mechaley – Tara Mechaley
Steve Kezar – Karmen Vanasse
HONORARY PALLBEARERS
All Relatives and Friends in Attendance
INTERMENT
Kadoka Cemetery
Kadoka, South Dakota

Service Details

FUNERAL SERVICES
Friday, March 19, 2004 2:00 p.m.
Presbyterian Church
Kadoka, South Dakota

Guest Book

Our sympathy goes out to you in the loss of your mother. Memories are precious. Janet is on a trip to England, so I am going to Avon to stay a few days with mom, so will be unable to go to your mother's funeral. With deepest sympathy, Ronnie & Emily
   ~ Ronnie & Emily Sammons Midland, SD (3/15/2004)
With deepest sympathy for the loss of your mother, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
   ~ Mary Rock Plano, TX (3/15/2004)