Velma Ila Cannell

Velma I. Cannell, of Vicksburg passed away on Wednesday, August 10 at the age of 93.

Born on January 6, 1929 in Guelph, Ontario Canada to Harold and Gladys (Younger) Boles, she married Arthur F. Cannell on July 29, 1950.  Velma lived for family and started her own shortly thereafter with son Stephen and later Donald.   Her young family relocated to the United States as a result of Art’s employment; first to Ohio and then eventually to St. Clair Shores Michigan, where they welcomed the birth of their third son, Larry. 

They raised their family in St. Clair Shores where Velma was active in the church and played a leadership role in Cub Scouts for each son.  She was very proud of her sons and provided them encouragement for each of their chosen directions through life.

Following their retirement in 1983, they spent time in North Carolina and Florida before moving to Vicksburg, Michigan. Their move to Vicksburg was necessitated by Art’s failing health, an event which placed substantial pressure on a self-identified homemaker.  She entered this stage of her life with uneasiness but a determination to take the reins of responsibility for their household.  She managed this additional responsibility quite admirably and grew in self-confidence as a result.  She loved living in Vicksburg.  She was an avid reader and took great pride in winning one of Vicksburg District Libraries Summer Reading Program contests. 

Following the death of her husband Art in 2013, she entered a stage of life where she was responsible for only herself.  She was quite content with this arrangement and had the simple goal of wanting to live out her life in the comfort and enjoyment of her own home in Vicksburg, with family nearby.  Fortunately, she was able to do this. 

Velma was a very private person who lived an honorable life.  She will be missed by family and friends and her memory will be held precious by all who knew her.

She is survived by sons: Stephen (Marie), Donald, and Larry (Lori Heiden) Cannell; grandchildren: Lisa (Kyle) Nirginakis, Emily (Raymond) French, Jonathon (Kate) Cannell, Marilyn Cannell, and Natalie Cannell; great-grandchildren: Tory French, Kaylin, Lucas, Lily and Kevin Nirginakis, and Sean Cannell. 

Consistent with her wishes, there will be no funeral service.  A private graveside ceremony will be held with family later in the fall.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Velma’s guestbook and/or share a memory with her family.

The Cannell family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 409 S. Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097. 269-649-1697