Velma was born on January 15th, 1929, on the family farm in rural North Dakota to Albert and Esther Western. She attended school in James Hill Township completing her studies through through the 8th grade where she developed a lifetime love of reading. Thereafter, Velma went on to spend the late 1940’s through the mid-1950’s working domestically for a number of local families with duties ranging from housekeeping to childcare.

In 1954, Velma met Donald Enger upon his return from the Korean War. The two courted steadily until they were united in holy matrimony in 1956 at the parsonage in Palermo. In 1957, Velma was blessed with the first of 6 children.

In the 1970’s Velma began working for the Palermo school, first as a teacher’s assistant where she found great satisfaction in helping children who were struggling academically. Eventually, Velma took on the responsibilities as school cook. She served in this capacity until the 1989 closure of the Palermo School.

Those who knew Velma well would describe her as incredibly honest, practical, and reliable. She was a highly organized person, with a talent for maintaining records that pertained to local and family history, as well as, cultural heritage. Velma often spent her time utilizing this knowledge to write stories of times gone by so as to pass along her love and understanding of the past.
Velma was a long time member of Faith Lutheran Church in Palermo, as well as, The Faith Circle, and Ladies Aid. Her hobbies included crocheting, quilting, gardening, canning and preserving, in addition to bird watching, and Scandinavian heritage. Velma was a spiritual woman, who prioritized family, friends, and faith. Her life embodied the values she held and devoted herself to passing on to her family. Velma was a devoted friend and family member, that will be greatly missed by her friends, family, and community.

Velma was survived by 3 sons, Wayne of Palermo, David (Cheryl) of Seattle, WA, Greg (Ronda) of Show Low, AZ; 1 daughter, Valerie of Mukilteo, WA; daughter-in-law Jana of Stanley; 13 grandchildren: Alacias, Anette, Skylar (Anna), Alexander, Amanda (Sam), Heather (Nate), Dylan, Sidney, Caitlyn, McKayla, Sydney, Nicholas, and Carson; 2 step-grandchildren Laryah and Kinde; 3 great grandchildren Aseeli, Nikolai, and Natalie; 1 step-great grandchild, Noah, and 2 brothers Robert and Albert (Mary) of Stanley.

Velma was proceeded in death by her husband, Don; her parents, Albert and Esther Western; sons, Brian and John; siblings, Norman, Sigard, Evelyn, and Walter; sister-in-law, Kay; and brother-in-law James.