Ralph Dennis Velie

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Olympia High School Shorecrest High School Washington State University

Ralph Velie Obituary

Ralph Dennis VELIE August 1, 1944 ~ February 11, 2012 Our hearts were saddened withthe passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, relative and friend. Family surrounded him in his final hours and days, for this we are so grateful. He passed away on February 11th after a courageous battle with cancer. His faith and courage carried him through. His wife Nancy and four children survive him. Vince Velie (Wendy) Toby Velie (Julie), Joe Nehen (Tara) Kirsten Lawlor (Rick) and 6 grandchildren. (Kegan, Kyah, Reese, Tate, Tripp and Megan), Brother Gary Velie of Port Angeles (Beth) and cousins. Ralph graduated from Olympia High School in 1962. He then became a lifetime WSU cougar. He started a career, in teaching, with the Shoreline School District, spanning 42 years. He was a teacher, soccer and football coach and a powerful example of how to live with honesty, integrity and honor. He was both a teacher and a learner. He believed that we are here to fulfill our journey in life, to do the best we can do in every moment and to be happy doing it. Ralph loved to read, travel, go to baseball, football and soccer games, the theater and plant beautiful gardens. Ralph's journey was inspirational to the many students that walked through his door.He cherished time with the family. The family wishes to thank Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, University of WA. Hospital, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and Evergreen Hospice. The staff, their caring and kind presence, was felt at every appointment during this journey. A memorial service will be held at Phinney Ridge Lutheran Church on Saturday, Feb. 25th at 10:30 a.m. followed by a celebration. A Ralph Velie Memorial Fund (to be used for Shorecrest High School student needs in athletics/activities) may be donated at any Chase Bank.

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Published by The Seattle Times from Feb. 17 to Feb. 19, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Ralph Velie

11 Entries

Jim Dean

March 1, 2012

Nancy, It was my pleasure to help care for Ralph and I was saddened to learn of his passing from your neighbor. I'll keep you close in my heart and cherish the memories of his being.

Ellyn Major-Belfiore

February 29, 2012

I also was a soccer player at Shorecrest... Mr. Velie was a amazing Coach and just as important a tender, loving and giving teacher. He taught so many the true meaning of life and how best to live it, RIP Mr. V, and I too will never forget your smile and heart

Patti Cartmill

February 25, 2012

It's hard to imagine our world without Ralph. He truly was a man of honor--as a husband, father, teacher, and friend. An inspiration to all of a life well lived.

David Diehl

February 24, 2012

I really enjoyed the classes I had with Mr. Velie. Am sorry to see that he has passed on. I pray that his family will be comforted is this time of sorrow.

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Siri Hulbert

February 21, 2012

That gentle, welcoming smile of Ralph's warms my heart, he's made a mark in so many lives.

Leslie Smoot Alexander

February 19, 2012

I was so saddened at the news of Mr. Velie's passing. He was an exceptional teacher and a truly nice man. He taught me to think outside the box and to see deeper than the surface. I have thought of Mr Velie quite often and talked about his classes with my friends. If I mentioned "Hooverville" everyone knew I was talking about our studies regarding the depression. His influence was far reaching and I am honored to have known him.
My sympathies.

February 19, 2012

Toby & Vince, Your Dad was a special person and I always respected him as a referee. My sympathies, Susan Cole, Stanwood, WA

Alison Bourque Kolde

February 19, 2012

Mr. Velie was the saving grace of my high school years. He encouraged and challenged me in class, and told me it was okay (actually even great!) to be smart. I have thought of him hundreds of times over the years, and have told stories about him to my own children, as an example of how one outstanding teacher can make a difference. Mr. Velie singularly launched me to become something more, to reach higher, to shine. He taught me to believe in myself. Mr. Velie - simply exceptional.

Sally Foster Oveson

February 18, 2012

I played girls soccer for Coach Velie (RV) for four years at Shorecrest. He was an amazing coach and inspirational man. He made a huge impression on me and I have thought of him fondly over the years. He was that one teacher who made a difference in my life. I will never forget his smile.