Velva Jean Wheeler

While nurturing her family, Velva dedicated herself to work, serving at Sheehan Mack Sales until 1992 before joining Inland Truck Parts until her retirement in 2020. During this time, Jeanie's heart expanded with the arrival of seven grandchildren: Tayla (1991), Breah (1992), Kasey (1994), Cole (1995), Braiden (2001), Kendra (2001), and Kenzie (2003). Her devotion to grandmotherhood surpassed even her love for motherhood.

In 1995, Velva and Jerry embraced a new chapter, relocating to an idyllic acreage near Garretson. Here, amid the tranquility of rural life, they cultivated cherished moments with their daughters and grandchildren. Weeknights were adorned with the hum of Jerry and his crew tinkering on the racecar, while Jeanie basked in the laughter and stories of her loved ones.

Weekends were a tapestry of joyous occasions, where the sprawling grounds of their homestead played host to pool parties, outdoor exploring and gardening, leisurely picnics, and creative arts and crafts sessions. Rain or shine, every major holiday was a cause for jubilation on the farm. From the crackle of fireworks on the Fourth of July to the warmth of Thanksgiving gatherings and the twinkling lights of Christmas, each celebration was steeped in love and togetherness.

Under Jeanie's watchful eye, the farm became a sanctuary of shared memories, a testament to the enduring bond of family. Beyond her family, Velva found joy in bowling, crafting, gardening, and baking cakes for cherished family gatherings. She was a constant presence at her loved ones' events, their greatest supporter in every endeavor.

Though Jerry's passing in 2011 left an irreplaceable void, Velva's resilience and love prevailed. In 2016, she embarked on a new chapter in Brandon, her faithful companion, Oreo, by her side, as she continued to treasure the legacy of family unity forged on their beloved farm. Although the time in her new home was short, the love and memories with family still flourished.

In the tapestry of our family's story, Velva "Jeanie" Wheeler was the brightest thread, weaving love, laughter, and unwavering support into the fabric of our lives. Her presence was a constant source of joy, her love an anchor in times of storm. With her passing, our hearts are heavy with the knowledge that we have lost not only a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, but also the greatest blessing we could have ever known. Jeanie's memory will forever be etched in our hearts, her legacy of love and resilience a guiding light in our lives. She will be profoundly missed, yet her spirit will continue to shine brightly, illuminating the path of love and unity she so beautifully exemplified.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Monica Bettin of Sioux Falls, Maureen “Mo” Kleven of Garretson, SD, and Marlene (Wally) Luedtke of Sioux Falls; grandchildren, Tayla (Steven) Fazio, Breah Bettin, Kasey (Sierra) Kleven, Cole Bettin, Braiden (Caitlin) Luedtke, Kendra Kleven, and Kenzie Luedtke; great grandson, Apollo Morgan; siblings, Bruce Allmendinger of Sioux Falls, Todd (Joan) Allmendinger of Colorado, and Darci O’Hara of Sioux Falls; in-laws, Cal (Donnel) Wheeler of Sioux Falls, David (Cheryl) Wheeler of Sioux Falls; and a host of nieces, nephews, friends and family.