Age 92, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family at Agrace HospiceCare in Fitchburg. Velma was born in Durand, WI, the youngest child of Daniel J. and Augusta “Gussie” Keyes. Mondovi, WI was her home in the early years and then the family moved to Madison. After attending Longfellow Grade School and West High School (class of 1940), Velma attended the Toby Academy of Cosmetology. She worked as a beautician for several years in Milwaukee and Madison. She married the love of her life, Frank L. McGuigan on June 26, 1943 at St. Raphael’s Cathedral in Madison. Frank and Velma owned and operated McGuigans’ Superette on Williamson Street for 14 years, providing friendly service to the Williamson Street Neighborhood. After the sale of their grocery store, Velma worked as administrative assistant and office manager. After retirement, she and Frank moved to their beloved cottage on Lake Huron in Plainfield, WI. They traveled in the early years of retirement to Europe, Hawaii, and Florida. For 24 years they spent the winter months in Harlingen, TX. Summers were spent at their cottage, their little bit of heaven. Some of the family’s fondest memories were weekend campouts in their back yard.
She never missed a chance to watch a Brewers, Packers, or Badger game. Being the loudest cheerleader with a “GET HIM!!!” she scared many a nearby fan! Velma began oil painting at age 70. Many of her paintings will be treasured by family and friends. Other hobbies included crocheting, cross-stitch, waterskiing, bicycling, swimming, walks on the beach, dancing, and late night swimming at the “Cottage”. Grandma never spoke an unkind word about anyone. Her gentle spirit, infectious smile and positive outlook will continue to touch the lives of all who knew and loved her. She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank McGuigan, her siblings, Malcolm (Ruby), Charlotte (Bill) Briggs, Trudy (Matt) Lybeck and Vincent.