Velda M. Grimes

Velda M. Grimes, 94, formerly of Hampshire passed away Tuesday morning, Sept. 20, 2022, in the home she shared with her daughter. She was born Aug. 9, 1928, in Elgin, the daughter of E.A. and Lillian (Lenz) Westerbeck. Velda was a graduate of Plato Twp. High School in 1946 and then married John M. “Jack” Grimes on Feb. 2, 1946, in North Plato. They lived in the Hampshire area all their married life. Velda had been employed for 31 years at Anaconda Wire and Cable in Sycamore and 8 years at the former Schmidt Card & Candle Shop in Hampshire. She was an active member of the Zion United Methodist Church in Hampshire, serving on many committees, teaching Sunday school, singing in the choir and was a UMW member, and most recently was a member of Poplar Grove United Methodist Church for the past 10 years since moving to Loves Park. Velda was a charter member of the VFW Post 8043, a lifetime member serving as past president and musician for many years. She was also a member who brought much fun with her music to the Hampshire-Burlington Senior Citizens who would recognize the old songs from her “Swingette” Band from years ago. She is survived by her daughter, Jean (Paul) Swanson of Loves Park; her sons, John Grimes of Casseillo, MO, and James “Jim” Grimes of Tracy, CA; daughter-in-law, Linda Grimes; 8 grandchildren, Kim (Dale) Thorn, Jackie (John) Bunger, Dave (Kate) Swanson, Eric (Jenny) Grimes, Allan (Kristen) Grimes, Tara (Brandon) Lewis, Brant (Esther) Grimes, and Troy Grimes; 16 great grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, John “Jack” Grimes on Dec. 25, 2001; grandson, Arlo Grimes; 2 sisters, Lois (August) Follman, and Jean (Stanley) Stojan; daughter-in-law, Pia Grimes; and son-in-law, Paul Swanson. Funeral Service will be on Saturday, Sept. 24 at 12 Noon at Zion Methodist Church, 157 W. Jefferson Ave. in Hampshire. Burial will follow in the Hampshire Center Cemetery. Visitation will be prior to services at the church from 10 to 11:45 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Velda’s name may be directed to the church, the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation at www.nationalmssociety.org or Poplar Grove United Methodist Church, 105 E. Grove St., Poplar Grove, IL 61065.

Velda M. Grimes

August 9, 1928 - September 20, 2022