Velma J. DuCharme

Oct. 20, 1914-Oct. 27, 2006

DALLAS, Ore. — Velma DuCharme died at the home she shared with her daughter and son-in-law, Donna and Mitchell Fetch in Dallas, Ore., on Oct. 27 2006, after a long struggle with Alzheimer's.

She was born in Clearwater, Idaho, to Charles L. and Ruby S. Straugh on Oct. 20, 1914. She graduated from high school at White Sulphur Springs in 1932 and worked most of her productive life as a cook, owning two restaurants in the White Sulphur Springs and Polson areas.

After selling her last restaurant she served as head cook and dietician for the Lake County Sheriff's jail until her retirement at age 72.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Manley, Marion (Scot), Henry and William (Bill) Straugh; sister Geraldine Stevick; son Robert (Bob) Kirkwood, and grandson Donald Kirkwood.

She is survived by son George Kirkwood of White Sulphur Springs; daughters Donna (Mitch) Fetch of Dallas, Ore., and Sally (Bill) Chellis of Port St. Lucie, Fla., four grandsons, two granddaughters, and numerous great and great-great grandchildren.

At her request there are no plans for services or memorials.