November 15, 1917 - November 19, 2009

MARYSVILLE - Velma passed away peacefully on November 19, 2009 surrounded by family and devoted caregivers. She began her life journey in Norton, Kansas and grew up on a farm in Nebraska with her 3 sisters and 2 brothers. After graduating from high school in 1936, Velma worked in a bakery to earn the tuition to attend nursing school. She proudly graduated from Bishop Clarkson College School of Nursing in Omaha, Nebraska and was licensed as a registered nurse in April of 1941.
Velma's love of her country led her to join the U.S. Army Nurse Corps in May of 1942. She served in the Pacific Theatre with tours of duty in Australia, New Guinea, and the Philippines as a 1st lieutenant until December of 1945. She was discharged from military service in February of 1946.
Marriage to Harland Barrett followed in 1947 in Annapolis, Maryland where Harland was an assistant football coach at the United States Naval Academy. The couple later moved to Yakima to raise their two children.
Velma joined the staff of St Elizabeth's Hospital in Yakima in 1953 and retired as Head Nurse in 1979. Harland passed away in 1966 and Velma married James Sommerville in 1974. Together, they built a summer home in Tokeland and retired there in 1980. Velma and James cherished their years together, enjoying lifetime pursuits such as travelling, bowling, visiting friends and family, and rousing card games. James passed away in 1985.
Velma moved to Everett in 1999 to be near her children and grandchildren, living in a condominium at Silver Lake and spending many happy years with her close friends. At the age of 91, Velma moved to Cedarcrest Adult Family Home in Marysville, where she enjoyed the last year of her life.
Throughout her life, Velma dedicated herself to caring for others. Her love for country, devotion to family, personal integrity, and sense of justice were the guiding principles of her life.
Velma's family would like to express special thanks to Elfie Simms and her dedicated staff at Cedarcrest Adult Family Home for their loving care during the last chapter of her life.
At Velma's request, no services will be held.