Obituaries

Obituary For Harry - Vela

Harry Vela passed away Thursday, March 24, 2022, in Jackson, CA at the age of 96 years old in his childhood home. He was born a fourth generation Vela on July 10, 1925. He was raised on the Vela ranch at Clinton and Butte Mountain roads in Jackson, walking to Aetna Grammar School and graduating Jackson High School in 1941 at age 16.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Desalena Agnes (Cuneo) and Nelson Wilfred Vela and his siblings Robert Vela and Dee Anna Rae (William) Tasto.

Harry is survived by three daughters, Laurie Vela, of Sutter Creek, CA, Kathy Vela, of Clovis, CA and Suzanne, of Sacramento, CA: two sons James Vela, of Houston, TX, and Barron (Lori) Shackleton, of Peoria, AZ. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

Harry served his country in the U.S. Army during WW II with the troops at the Alb River Crossing in Germany entering service on November 1st, 1943. He was honorably discharged on May 9, 1946. He returned to Jackson, lived his life on the family ranch, working for the Amador County Sheriff’s department for 33 years. He was secretary for the Native Sons for 50 years and secretary for Little League for 20 years.

He had a deep love for Amador County as well as the high Sierras and Nevada. He loved spending time in the mountains, Carson City, and Virginia City. Favorite events included the Amador County Fair, Kit Carson Days, Dandelion Days, and the Latrobe Pancake Breakfast. He was a regular at local restaurants, especially Sammy’s and Perkos where he was always treated like family.

Harry had a passion for his homeland; he was often an outspoken proponent for preserving the rich history of the past as well as environmental conservation. He loved rocks, country music, John Wayne and all the old western movies.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation held from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Thursday, March 31, 2022, as well as a funeral service at 9:00 AM on Friday, April 1 at Daneri Mortuary Chapel in Jackson, CA. Family burial will follow at the Jackson Catholic Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to Jackson Senior Center. The family wishes to express deep gratitude to American Heritage Hospice and his live in caregiver Aliti.

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  03/29/2022

  Jessie M. McBride

  My favorite memories of Harry involve his habitual response when asked how he was doing he would say, "Still kickin'!" Routine walks down to the grand ancient walnut tree where we would sit in the shade until Whitey the cat would wander over to be petted by Harry. Feeding the cows and witnessing the newborns. Watering his precious hops, grapes & rose bushes. Listening to the ubiquitous cowboy movies he would watch while sitting in his chair as I prepared dinner (which thankfully he ate without complaint🥰) 🙏 Autumn gathering of walnuts at sunset on the Vela Ranch slice- of-paradise. Sister Dee's lipstick mark on his forehead every Thursday. Brother Bob coming over to check the water level. Dusting his rock collection & framed family pictures and listening to associated stories.💕 Good neighbors Pete and Dave always willing to help. Our nightly handshake when I'd tell him, "I'll see you tomorrow." And of course Laurie's constant support, dedication, supplies, and bright light love 💖☮️🙏 Jessie M. McBride (home care May 2015-November 2018)

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  03/29/2022

  Austin Hayes

  Dear Vela Family, We are so sorry for the loss of your Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather Harry. The world becomes a very different place with the passing of a parent. What an incredible life Harry lived! The days and weeks to come will be tough, but we hope for your peace and comfort in these trying times. Offering our deepest condolences to you during this difficult time. Austin Hayes & Chris Younger Rancho Mirage, CA

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