Velma Gunkel, 84, Halstad, MN formerly Borup, MN died very peacefully, Friday, October 20, 2006 in the Halstad Living Center, Halstad.

Velma L. Brown was born July 17, 1922, the daughter of Isaac and Grace (Steal) Brown in New Salem, Illinois. As a youngster, Velma moved with her family to Bussey, Iowa, where she grew up and attended school. At the age of 12, they moved to Hadler, Minnesota, living there for a year before making their home in the Halstad community. As a young woman, Velma provided child care for family members. On February 15, 1941, Velma was united in marriage to Carl Gunkel in Ada, Minnesota. The couple made their home near Hillsboro, North Dakota, where they farmed with Carl's family until 1947. They then moved to Borup where they farmed. Carl died on July 15, 1986. Velma continued live on the farm near Borup until entering the Halstad Living Center in 2000 where she had made her home since.

Velma found enjoyment in traveling, dancing, bowling, cooking, and baking. In her younger years, she was an active member of Winchester Lutheran Church in Borup where she also enjoyed participating in ladies aide.

Velma is survived by two sons, Dallas of Fargo, ND and Donald of Borup, MN; 11 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren and several great-greatgrandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, one son, one brother and two sisters.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, October 26, 2006, at 10:30 AM in Winchester Lutheran Church in Borup. Visitation will be one hour before services at the church on Thursday.
Interment will take place in Riverside Cemetery in Hillsboro, North Dakota.