1936 September 16 – 2023 October 24
At the age of 87 Velma peacefully joined her family she held in her heart and dearly missed.
Velma was born in Gunton, MB to Alan and Jeanne Cosens. Along with her siblings Vern, Harold and Tom they worked on the farm tending sheep, cows, horses, pigs and chickens where chores were completed before and after school. Mom talked fondly of her childhood saying “you just did what you had to and never thought anything of it”. Making the best of what they had, the house was filled with love, laughter and food. Shenanigans aplenty went on when Mom and her brothers and friends were involved.
Mom entered the work force working at a box factory in Winnipeg and then took a teaching gig that sent her to Lac du Bonnet, where her life as a mother began. Moving back to Winnipeg she started her banking career with the Bank of Montreal, eventually transferring to the bank in Pinawa and finishing her career at the Royal Bank in Lac du Bonnet. She met many lifelong friends and continued on her path of laughter and trickery, occasionally getting her in trouble with management, but never slowing her or her accomplices.
Once retiring from the Royal Bank and not ready to leave the public she began working at the LaVerendrye Trading Company clothing store. This was simply another fun adventure.
Velma met and married Joe Kulbaba where they and daughter Darlene shared a country life living in Lac du Bonnet at the Farm where Joe was born. They built their house, farmed the land, worked outside the home and hosted many meals. Mom (aka Chicken – a name given to her by Joe and called by most) took pride in making sure there were homecooked meals and fresh garden produce. She was always ready to try a new recipe but was famous for her biscuits and Easter Buns – we couldn’t get enough. Leaving the Farm you could hear her yelling “hey wait a minute, I’ll cut you some fresh asparagus”.
Chicken lived her life with a sparkle in her blue eyes, loved her family, holding hands with her grands while walking up the driveway, was a great listener, had a gentle way of giving advice and was very proud of her Dutch ancestry (deGast).
Survived by Joe and her children: Rick (Shirley), Deb (Joe), Alan, Louise (Tim), Dennis and Darlene (Shawn); grandchildren (great-grandchildren): Stephanie (Artemis), Wendy, James, Jessica (Isabella, Kingston) and Cole, and numerous sisters/brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her grandchildren Jeremy and Amy.
You’ll always bring a chuckle, be loved and missed xxoo
Thank you to the RCMP, Ambulance Attendants and Sobering Funeral Chapel for the kindness and respect shown to Velma and the family.
If family/friends so desire, memorial tributes can be made to a charity of your choice.
In Chic’s words “smile, doesn’t cost you anything and might make someone feel better”
Offer Condolence for the family of Velma Jeanne Kulbaba (nee Cosens)
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Norma Hladki
We are so sorry to hear of Velma’s passing, she was a lovely lady. Sincere condolences and hugs to all of you, Norma & Donnie
Jackie Hodge
RIP my dear friend I will miss you and our telephone calls. Condolence to Joe and the family
Elizabeth Schinkel
Our deepest sympathies to Joe and your family. Your lovely smile every time we banked years ago was most welcoming. Leslie and I just recently spoke of you and Joe dancing at our wedding . A nicer couple we have never known. Love from Leslie and Elizabeth Schinkel.
Karen Stadnyk
Our deepest condolences to your family on the loss of such a wonderful lady. Losing someone is never easy, but the memories are what keep us going.
Cindy and Art
Deepest condolences to the family. Velma was a dear sweet person and will be missed by many. Hugs to you all.
Cindy and Art Braun
Karen and Larry
Darlene and Sean and Uncle Joe
Larry and I were saddened to hear your mom passed away. My mom, Linda and I had many visits at Uncle Eddy and Gabriella’s in the company of your mom and dad talking about the good old days. We laughed and enjoyed each other’s company.
Your mom had a lovely, quiet charm about her. She will be missed.
Our sincere condolences to you and your dad.
Annette Luttermann
What a beautiful tribute to Velma. A life well lived full of hard work, love and fun. She brought joy to so many others.
Our thoughts are with you all. Big hugs!
Todd, Annette and Danika
Randy Keith
Dar, Shawn, Joe, Jess and the rest of your family,
We were so sorry to hear of your Mom & Grandmother’s passing and you continue to be in our thoughts. The passing of a much loved member of a family is a difficult time – as the late Queen said, “grief is the price we pay for love”. Your grief is shared by all who knew your Mom and the tremendous lady she was. Remember, cherish and take strength from all the memories and happy times you shared.
Love Randy & John
Virginia Mathews
I met and worked with Velma in the 1970’s at the Bank of Montreal in Pinawa and always admired her work ethic. I will treasure forever our phone conversation just a few weeks ago.
Please share my condolences with your family and friends. She will be missed dearly.
Sincerely, Virginia
Audrey Korpan
Joe, Darlene, and family,
I had the pleasure of working with Velma at the Royal Bank in Lac du Bonnet. She was a great co-
Worker and a great friend. We kept in touch over the years and had a great conversation this spring.
I am very sad to hear of her recent passing and wish to express my sincere condolences. Cherish your memories.❤️