Velda M. Van Antwerp (89) went to heaven on Tuesday, September 16, 2025. She was born on March 18, 1936, in Rapid City; one of eleven children of Orman and Ella (Allen) Curtis who moved to Rapid City in 1927 from Eastern South Dakota.

Compassionate and smart, Velda earned her nursing degree later in life and worked at numerous Black Hills facilities while singlehandedly raising three children. Velda was a fantastic mom, an accomplished craftsperson, painter, and expert in the kitchen. She loved sharing her talents and gifts with all and fed everyone in sight. Her home was permeated with love and was everyone's favorite gathering place. She was a friend and confidant to all and will be sorely missed.

Velda was preceded in death by her parents Orman L. and Ella M. Curtis; her husband Robert; her brothers Verlin, Curvin, and Marlin (Curt); her sisters Juline (Jean), Vernice, and Elvira (Vi). She is also survived by her son Dennis Davis and daughters Dianne Davis and Danise Kaps. Additionally, she has two granddaughters Ryan and Bailey, and one grandson Tommy. Other surviving kin include brothers Dean and Orlin (Curt) and sisters Phyla Weddle and Shurla (Sam) Parsons.

A private family burial is planned at Black Hills National Cemetery with a celebration of life to be held at a later date.