Velma Skarvan

Velma Virgina (Brandon) Skarvan, 93, of Rockford passed away Sunday, March 21, 2021, following a short illness.  Born July 26, 1927, in Oakwood, Hannibal, Missouri, the daughter of Vernon L. and Kathleen H. (Hayden) Brandon.  She moved to Rockford in 1944.  Married Cyril J. Skarvan on June 30, 1950, in Rockford.  They raised two daughters, Bonnie and Pauline.  Velma was employed by Grocery Store Retailers Union for many years.  Following retirement, the Skarvans moved to Florida.  During their time there, Velma and Cyril celebrated fifty years of marriage.  Cyril passed away on September 5, 2001.  His death came at a difficult time as his funeral was scheduled for September 12, 2001.  Velma was especially touched by family members in attendance especially given the tragic historical events the day before had grounded all flights.  Velma was a two-time cancer survivor having battle both breast cancer and colon cancer.  Her battle with cancer came at the time she was caring for her husband months before his death.  While living in Florida, Velma was blessed to have her uncle living nearby as Uncle Pete and Velma took care of one another.  She also enjoyed gatherings with members of her Widows group from her church.  In October 2004, Velma decided to return to Illinois as she wanted to be closer to her brothers.  She purchased a home in Machesney Park, where she lived the remaining years of her life.  She will be remembered for her love of music.  One of Velma’s greatest joys was playing her piano.  Holidays were special for Velma, especially Christmas, as she loved decorating her home, which often included several Christmas trees and countless village pieces.  Velma loved being part of a large family which provided multiple offers of where to spend the holidays.  She would often have dinner at one and stop by another for dessert.  Velma is survived by her daughters, Bonnie and Pauline; grandchildren, Kathy, John, Lisa, and Michelle; many great-grandchildren; brothers, Ralph and William (Yvonne); nieces, Becky, Vicki, Vonna, Wendy, Diane, Lynn, and Barb; nephews, Bruce, Brad, Mark, William, and Jeff; and numerous great-nieces and -nephews.  Velma is predeceased by her parents; husband; granddaughter, Lori; brothers, Gilbert, Marion, Gene, and Bernard; sisters-in-law, Corky, Betty, and Nancy; nephews, Steven and Michael; and great-niece, Charity.  Special thank you to Velma’s neighbor Katie for many years of friendship and companionship.  Velma was blessed to have such a wonderful neighbor.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.  Private burial was in Sunset Memorial Gardens.  Arrangements by Delehanty Funeral Home, Ltd., 401 River Lane, Loves Park.