Mount Morris, IL – Velma Rowland, 88, died Sept. 13, 2009, in Pinecrest Manor Nursing Home. Born Oct. 31, 1920, in Freeport, the daughter of Charles and LuLu (Emmert) Zellers. Married Harry Rowland on May 27, 1939, in Marion, Iowa. Velma worked various part-time jobs while raising her four children; after the death of her husband she was employed by Kable News. After retiring she volunteered her time to many community organizations. She taught local adults to read through Highland Community College, mentored young children through the Rahn Elementary School, worked at Ogle County Life Line, delivered Meals on Wheels, assisted the Mount Morris Chamber of Commerce and served on the Mount Morris Planning Commission. Velma was recognized with the Mayor’s award for outstanding achievement for community service. Also active in Mount Morris Brethren Church, serving several terms on the church board, was a Deacon and volunteered at the church headquarters in Elgin. Velma offered friendship, time and transportation to many people in need.

Survived by children, Marlys Todd of Boiling Spring Lake, N.C., Dennis (Millie) Rowland of Ocala, Fla., Deane (Dee) Rowland of Oregon and Peggy (Gregg) Stark of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; grandchildren, Daniel (Tammy) Rowland, Scott Rowland, Christy (Andy) Egyed, Dale (Jeannie) Rowland, Kai (Kelly) Stark and Christopher (Angela) Stark; nine great-grandchildren; sister, Irene Weeks. Predeceased also by brothers, Kenny, Darrel and Archie Zellers.

Service at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 16, in Mount Morris Church of the Brethren, with visitation from 10 a.m. to time of service; the Rev. Virginia Haney will officiate. Burial in Plainview Cemetery, Mount Morris. In lieu of flowers, memorials established to Ogle County Hospice, Pinecrest Manor and Mount Morris Church of the Brethren. Arrangements by Finch Funeral Home, 405 E. Hitt St., Mount Morris, IL 61054.