Obituaries
Velma Rose Burke
2025-08-28
Velma Rose Burke, 83, of Bedford, NH, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, after a short but courageous battle with injuries sustained from an accidental fall. The family finds strength in the words of Psalms 23: "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want... Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me."
Born in Woodsville, NH, on February 18, 1942, Velma was one of six children to Vern (Jennings) and Frank Haines Winn. She grew up on the family's dairy farm in Piermont, NH, a place that instilled in her a deep connection to the land and a strong work ethic. She had many fond memories of helping her father and brothers with the daily chores. While in high school, Velma excelled in Basketball and spent her summers working at the Sugarhill Inn, where she lived and often recounted stories of meeting many famous guests.
After attending Piermont Elementary and Bradford Academy, Velma briefly enrolled in nursing school. However, she soon discovered her true passion for the arts and became a talented floral designer for many years at Lorraine's Bridal Boutique. Here, she channeled her creativity into crafting beautiful arrangements for countless weddings. She later enjoyed her time as a beloved cashier at Walmart. In 1964, she married James Burke, and they were married for 36 years before divorcing.
A truly gifted artist, Velma was a natural musician who played both the guitar and organ entirely by ear. Her artistic talents also extended to her home, where she had a passion for decorating and creating beautiful and welcoming spaces.
Velma is survived by her two children, Tammi (Burke) Klotz and Jonathan Burke; her brothers, Roland, John, and his wife, Donna (Goss), and Donald and his wife, Maureen (O’Keefe/Hunt); and her grandchildren, Jenna Klotz and Amanda Klotz Vashon. She was predeceased by her brother Gerald Winn and her sister Violet Fenoff.
The family extends their deepest gratitude to the nurses, doctors, and staff at the Bedford Nursing Home and the Elliott VNA for their compassionate care and unwavering support. A special thank you to Reverend Perry Sleasman for allowing Velma to pass on peacefully.
A Celebration of Life will be held on October 25 at noon for family and friends at the Maplewood Golf Course & Inn in Bethlehem, NH. Velma will be laid to rest next to her sister, Violet, with a private ceremony at the Park Street Cemetery in Whitefield, NH. The family requests that memorial donations be made to the Lake Sunapee VNA & Hospice, 107 Newport Road, New London, NH 03257.
Born in Woodsville, NH, on February 18, 1942, Velma was one of six children to Vern (Jennings) and Frank Haines Winn. She grew up on the family's dairy farm in Piermont, NH, a place that instilled in her a deep connection to the land and a strong work ethic. She had many fond memories of helping her father and brothers with the daily chores. While in high school, Velma excelled in Basketball and spent her summers working at the Sugarhill Inn, where she lived and often recounted stories of meeting many famous guests.
After attending Piermont Elementary and Bradford Academy, Velma briefly enrolled in nursing school. However, she soon discovered her true passion for the arts and became a talented floral designer for many years at Lorraine's Bridal Boutique. Here, she channeled her creativity into crafting beautiful arrangements for countless weddings. She later enjoyed her time as a beloved cashier at Walmart. In 1964, she married James Burke, and they were married for 36 years before divorcing.
A truly gifted artist, Velma was a natural musician who played both the guitar and organ entirely by ear. Her artistic talents also extended to her home, where she had a passion for decorating and creating beautiful and welcoming spaces.
Velma is survived by her two children, Tammi (Burke) Klotz and Jonathan Burke; her brothers, Roland, John, and his wife, Donna (Goss), and Donald and his wife, Maureen (O’Keefe/Hunt); and her grandchildren, Jenna Klotz and Amanda Klotz Vashon. She was predeceased by her brother Gerald Winn and her sister Violet Fenoff.
The family extends their deepest gratitude to the nurses, doctors, and staff at the Bedford Nursing Home and the Elliott VNA for their compassionate care and unwavering support. A special thank you to Reverend Perry Sleasman for allowing Velma to pass on peacefully.
A Celebration of Life will be held on October 25 at noon for family and friends at the Maplewood Golf Course & Inn in Bethlehem, NH. Velma will be laid to rest next to her sister, Violet, with a private ceremony at the Park Street Cemetery in Whitefield, NH. The family requests that memorial donations be made to the Lake Sunapee VNA & Hospice, 107 Newport Road, New London, NH 03257.
Have a story?
Let's hear it!
(802) 757-2773
(603) 787-2444
news@thebridgeweekly.com