Velma Josephine Sweeney

Velma Josephine Sweeney, age 96, passed away in her home of 67 years in Westminster, Colorado on November 19, 2023. She peacefully transitioned with loved ones at her side. She had been cared for in her home for over two years by the most loving and cherished caregivers one could ever hope for one’s mother to employ and develop deep friendships with. Velma was born on February 10, 1927 to Rose and Peter Buscietta in North Denver where she was delivered by the local doctor in the family kitchen. She grew up in the Little Italy area of North Denver amongst other Italian families who shared memories and delicious food. She loved to share of this time growing up in such a rich culture with her parents and her brothers, Fred and Leo. During her teens, Velma enjoyed attending dances with her friends and the “boys” who were on leave during WW2. One such boy was William Sweeney (Bill) who she would marry in 1946 and share her life with. Velma and Bill had seven sons- Bill, Chuck, Don, Marty, Mike, Pete, and Ken. The family moved from Denver to what she called “the boonies” in Westminster following the birth of their twin sons in 1956 and created a full life in their home for 67 years. She recalled that they had the first landline telephone in the city. Velma had numerous friends in the neighborhood, through the Westminster Elks Club and her TOPS group and had an especially dear bond with her “birthday group” ladies. They share many a fond memory of friendship and hijinks. Velma was passionate about her family and in cooking fabulous authentic Italian meals that would become a central focus of holiday and other traditions, all passed down to her appreciative family members to continue with their own families. While teaching the art of her cooking to her kids and grandkids she shared her special Italian technique of measuring herbs and spices in the palm of her hand. These memories will last for the generations to come. Her legacy of love and living life to the fullest will keep her memory close to the heart of her family and friends. Velma is survived by her six sons and three daughters in law, 15 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild and numerous nieces and nephews and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, husband, son Don, and granddaughter Paige and great granddaughter Ronnie Kay. Rosary service and funeral mass will be held Monday November 27, 2023, 11:00 am at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Westminster followed by burial at Mount Olivet Cemetery. A reception will be held at the Westminster Elks Club.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the following charities- Intermountain Hospice and Project Angelheart. See links below.

https://www.projectangelheart.org/give-now/