March 5, 1935 – Nov. 15, 2015
It is with deepest sadness that the family of Veda Mae Perrey share the news of her passing on Nov. 15, 2015 after a brief illness.
Veda Best was born in Gull Lake, Saskatchewan, the youngest of six siblings and moved with her family to Vancouver, B.C. at age three. After graduating, Veda worked for the Vancouver Sun. She later moved to 100 Mile House and worked as a telephone operator.
Veda met Art Perrey at a dance in Lac la Hache and the couple married in 1955. Twin daughters, Barbara and Deborah, were born in 1956 followed by Susan in 1959.
Art and Veda established the first Chevron station and bulk fuel delivery in 100 Mile House, later building a small drive-in restaurant next door (Tastee Freeze). They constructed a large rainbow sign with map of the area that was very successful in attracting tourists traveling through 100 Mile House to their gas station and drive-in. They went on to develop other commercial buildings in the town and moved from town to a ranch (Skady ranch) at Horse Lake.
Veda, a city girl at heart, took some time to embrace farm life with the usual enthusiasm she showed for new adventures. She quickly evolved into an unwavering support to her daughters with 4-H, Outriders club, and many school and community sports and activities.
When Art took up flying, Veda signed up for flying lessons in hope of overcoming her “white knuckle” fear of small planes. She excelled as a passenger in large jets. Veda loved her work as a travel agent and enjoyed extraordinary journeys around the world.
In 1979 Art and Veda retired to Ladysmith on Vancouver Island. Perhaps “retirement” is not the appropriate term as Art built a commercial fishing boat in the back yard and they commercial fished for three years.
Veda loved sports and participated in fast-ball, curling, yoga, and golf. Veda’s passion for golf and bridge brought many wonderful, enduring friendships. Veda loved meeting new people and no matter where she went, would become immersed in conversations within minutes of being in the company of others.
Veda was predeceased by all of her siblings and was heart-broken following the loss of her daughter, Debbie in 1999. Veda will be forever loved and missed by her husband of sixty-one years, Art, her daughters Barbara and Susan and her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
In accordance with Veda’s wishes, no funeral service will be held. Family and close friends will come together in early summer to spread her ashes at sea and celebrate Veda’s life.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a charity of your choice.
Condolences maybe offered at
www.telfordsladysmith.com
Telford’s of Ladysmith - 250-245-5553
250-245-5553