Velma Isabel Starrak
Velma Isabel Starrak, aged 97 years of Moose Jaw, SK passed away Monday, December 21st, 2020. She was predeceased by her husband, Edward Scott Starrak; parents, Claude and Edith Smith; sister, Mildred and brother-in-law, Bob Binner; and brother, Jim Smith. Velma is survived by her brother, Everett (Darleen); daughter, Wendy Vincent (Harry and their two children Scott and Erin and five grandchildren); and son, Greg (Carol and their two children Scott and Kelly).
Vel was raised on the family farm in Stoney Beach, SK, growing up through the depression. She rode her pony to school, beginning what was a lifelong passion for horses. She was a terrific athlete, playing for the Moose Jaw Royals through the 1940’s with several championships and tours through Chicago and Detroit. She was a pioneer of women’s hockey, including a western Canadian Championship, and represented Saskatchewan at the1963 Dominion Curling Championship in New Brunswick.
Vel married Scott Starrak in 1951 and worked with him in his veterinary profession and their Standardbred horse racing and breeding operation until his death in 1984. She remained on the family farm for 20 years taking care of her beloved horses and dogs, plus the many other animals she came home from the auction with. Vel donated much of her time to the Moose Jaw Humane Society, further demonstrating her love of animals.
Velma was a marvelous mother and a terrific friend to many people and will be greatly missed. A Celebration of Life followed by interment beside her husband Scott is planned for the summer, specific date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Velma may be made to the The Moose Jaw Humane Society, Box 1658 Station Main, Moose Jaw, SK S6H 7K7 or a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Todd Sjoberg, Funeral Director 306-693-4550
My sincere condolences. May she Rest In Peace. Wendy and Greg, I know you will miss her greatly and always. Erin and Scott, I know you have wonderful memories and losing another Grandmother is like losing a part of your heart but instead she will always be in that part of your heart. Vel was an amazing woman and I have some wonderful memories visiting with her. I know her soul has flown to heaven where she and Scott have been reunited.
Big hugs to Greg and Wendy and your families.
Wish I was closer to you both❤️
God bless my Aunt Vel. Peace be with you Wendy and Greg
Dear Family: You have lost a truly wonderful lady. I worked with Vel at the Humane Society in Moose Jaw from 1987-1992. She was a special lady. Sincere Sympathies to everyone.
Ev and Darleen : Please accept my condolences for the loss of your sister…..Don Murray
So sorry to here the sad news. It must be even harder during these pandemic restrictions. Thinking about you and sending you love.
To Vel’s family: my condolences. She was a kind lady and I’m happy to have had the pleasure of knowing her. I enjoyed the well written obituary. It described her perfectly and made me smile.
I am very sad to hear of Vel’s passing.Such an interesting lady with so much to share.I knew Scott as well as he was our Vet when I was a kid.Together again.
Rest In Peace aunt Vel. I love my Canadian family, such great memories, such great people!
My deepest sympathy to all the family for the loss of a fine lady.
Greg and Wendy
We lived beside You guys growing up and used to come over and “play”. Vel would take me to the barn and let me help her muck stalls and then lead me around on one of the horses. It’s where I got my true love of horses. My sincere condolences. A beautiful soul in heaven. Vel thank you for the beautiful memories ✨
I offer my sincere condolences to her family. I never met Val that I recall but she sounds like a wonderful person. I knew Scott from when I was a farm kid south of Moose Jaw and I taught and later worked with Gregg at the Western College of Vet Medicine in Saskatoon. Scott was a great guy — as is Gregg. You are in my prayers!!
My condolences to Wendy and Greg, Our families have been friends for many years, Our parents traveled to a few horse sales together as well as Scott doing Vet work for Dad. School times with Greg at Queen Elizabeth Mom and Dad used to visit with Vel when they were in Moose Jaw and Dad kept in phone contact in his last few years. Always sad to see old friend pass. Take Care.
Michael Burgess
Big Beaver SK.