Ramon Gaanderse
March 31, 2006
Veronica Cherry
March 20, 2006
Comments from Ramon Gaanderse
I first met Veronica in October 2001 when I first applied for a job with the Tucson chamber. After getting the job, I quickly moved in with the chamber family, and veronica greeted me with a bright smile. The government affairs department at the chamber only consisted of three people. Soon after, veronica and I were left with a huge hole to fill because our director moved on. Because I was young, new, and really did not have a clue as to what I was doing, veronica took control. She was eager and committed to making this a smooth transition. I relied on her knowledge and her leadership and she did just that, knowing the circumstances.
Veronica and I became close friends. At the same time, it struck me how well she could relate to “us young guys.” I think Erik and I can vouch for that better then most being in our late 20’s at the time.
I considered veronica a “real” and “true” “friend,” and she never let me down. She always offered advice about work, family, home decorating and so much; but specifically when it came to women. In fact she was so good, I think I took her advice more then not, and it always worked out. “V” was a great listener, gave the other perspectives, but always used her charm to make everything all better when times were rough for me. I particularly remember times in the chamber parking lot after work hours, or late night phone calls, or just having a chocolate or apple martini somewhere to talk about everything and anything. Not only did she have to deal with me, but also we all knew “V” was the animal lover and she dog sat for me and till this day, I think she loves bingo more then I do!
Veronica was by far the best when it came to balancing your serious time at work, or you’re not so serious times after work. There was not one time she did not invite me to join her for a pizza at Uno’s, or listen to jazz music, or go to the sidewinders, or her famous martini parties.
What I the remember most is that every morning when I came to work she was 9 out 10 times there with a smile on her face and ready for new challenges. I never saw Veronica in a bad mood; I think she left that at home with Tia, her cat. You knew when Veronica was near by, especially those 7:30 meetings when you could hear her lovely laugh down the hall. It was the best to hear her laugh!
The definition of a “friend” is: serving a beneficial or helpful purpose, showing kindly interest and goodwill.
“V” by far resembles this definition.
Marvin & Darlene Monroe
March 20, 2006
Our heartfelt sympathy to Ron, Belva, Randy, Diane and Neil. Our thoughts are with you.
Caitlyn Johnston
March 20, 2006
To Veronica's family and friends -
I'm so sorry for your loss. I can't believe how fast this all happened. Blessings to you all, and to Veronica. I know she's watching over you.
- Caitlyn
her fellow MBA student
tom calhoun
March 17, 2006
Debbie,
Though it's been a while since we last saw each other, I will always remember your bright smile and spirit. In a world that seems so dark at times you were the eternal optimist and burning flame for something better and a truer reflection of how great life can be.
I will remember you for that wonderful, positive spirit that you are and the smile that provided the exclamation point.
Happy trails til we meet again.
Love, Tom
John O'Connor
March 17, 2006
Hey there Debbie, oops! sorry, I mean Veronica,
This is a stunner, that you were taken so quickly. For me you were always a bright light, a beautiful spirit who just lit up a room with a positive glow. I got to see you in Arizona a few times and also in LA a time or two, but I still have this beautiful smiling picture of you in 1976 or so in the big house that Craig shared with other Duck pals near the University of Oregon.
I am not sure which great writer said it but it was about letting our flames burn bright and big, going from this life fully spent rather than hording our talents and spirits. When someone so young and bright as you passes, we are left with a great void and loss, because you Debbie (or Veronica) filled up such a big space. From what I saw and can see looking back at you, your light did burn bright bright with a great loving and giving heart that touched many. You did not go the sad way of holding your light under a basket in fear that it would run out, or put others off. You did live a bright and beautiful life and your moving forward to your next level leaves a big space, a void for us, which will bring us all an appropriate saddness, but which too will fill us with the reminder of how somone, like us even, can live a great life, no matter how long we get. Your quick departure can remind us of how fleeting life is or can be, and help us shift our focus to burn our own flames even brighter than we have been.
Thank You Debbie, I mean Veronica, for all you gave, and for the gifts you are still giving.
with saddness and gratitude.......your friend John O'Connor
Virginia Ireland
March 16, 2006
Dearest Veronica, What a perfect smile you always had and guess what.....you are now absolutely and completely perfect again! Praise the Lord!! Thank you for having been such a wonderful and caring friend not only to Jim but also to me. I love you and will miss you very much.
Virginia
Showing 1 - 7 of 7 results
Tucson, AZ

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more