To all who knew her and those who may never have had the privilege:
My dear friend and companion for the past six-plus years, Veronica Meurs, passed from this earthly life Thursday August 7th at 7:30 EST.
During that time we packed a lot of travels, Navy reunions, day trips, family gatherings, volunteer work, watercolor classes, and the list goes on. She was a kindred spirit, calm and reassuring to all those she knew and met. Like my dear Linda, who passed away 8-1/2 years ago, everyone who met Veronica, became her friend.
Our travels included: Utah (her family and sights); Navy reunion in Sturgis,SD (Deadwood, Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Badlands, etc) Yellowstone, Grand Tetons; Norfolk IUSS 65th and 70th reunions; entire West Coast trip (Seattle to San Fran - including Navy reunion at Pac Beach, stops at former NavFacs Coos Head and Centerville Beach. Several trips to Venice FL, St. Simmons Island GA, entire east coast, Palm Coast FL, and the many others.
A few of my Navy acquainaenances who met Veronica, with her warm and endearing demeanor, were John and Pat Ellis, Doug Devers, Dave and Lois Bailey, Russ and Mrs.Oberlander, Jim and Kathy Donovan, Nick McConnell, Rick and Pat Ulp, Capt. "Scratch", Adm. and Mrs. Harding, and several others that I can't recall.
She desired no obituary, no service and nothing very special in her rememberance. She donated her body to Albany Medical College with her ashes to be scattered behind her childhood home in Whitehall, NY (birthplace of the U.S. Navy - and location of my Navy retirement in 1981).
Some who predeceased her were: her parents Hank and Rosalie Crispino and former husband Walt Rivette.
Surviving family members include: Sons Mike (Audrey) Rivette and Randy Rivette; granddaughters Amelia Rivette and Morgan (Chris) Cottrell; great granddaughters Charlotte and Kennedy Cottrell.
My heartfelt appreciation to all those who have extended their condolences and prayers to myself and her family during this extraordinarily difficult time.
So sorry for your loss Irv. It sounds like you had many good years together and you can hold onto those memories. My sincere thoughts and prayers to you and her family, may she rest in peace.
I am so sorry to hear this. Pat and I extend our sincere condolences on your loss of Veronica.
Yes, Pat and I were one of the couples to have the pleasure of meeting and spending time with Veronica. Dee's description of Veronica is on the mark. She was a very enjoyable person to know.
Remember the good times Dee as you have described some ventures that make for memories to help through times like these.
Pat and I and your many friends and shipmate are here for you as you work through these troubled times.
John and Pat
Dee,
We never had the privilege of meeting your lady, but your description of her makes that a missed opportunity for sharing the best of life's experiences.
Our sincere condolences to you and all who knew and loved her.
So sorry to read this post. My sincere condolences to you and all in Veronica's circle. Yes, of course, I remember meeting Veronica here in Norfolk. You were so proud to introduce her to us, and Veronica fit right in with the gang. You were and are one lucky man. Mr. D!
