Elsie Virginia Velarde, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, of Salt Lake City, Utah, passed away on her 86th birthday, Thursday, September 12, 2024, surrounded by her cherished family. Born in La Puente, New Mexico in 1938, Elsie was the daughter of Tranquilino and Rosa Valdez. She met the love of her life, Arsenio Velarde, in Chama, New Mexico. Together, they shared 66 years of marriage, building a life filled with love, laughter, and raising nine children.

Elsie dedicated over 20 years of service to Shriner's Hospital, where she worked in the laundry department, touching the lives of those she worked with. Outside of work, she found joy in playing slots and bingo, hobbies she enjoyed with family and friends. Elsie was the proud grandmother of 24 grandchildren, and her love extended to many great- and great-great-grandchildren as well. Above all, she will be remembered for her incredible devotion to her family, being an amazing mother and grandmother.

Elsie is survived by her children: Richard, Mercy, Valerie, Fermin, and Angelo; and sister, Lucy. She was preceded in death by her parents, Tranquilino and Rosa Valdez; her siblings, Tranquilino Jr. (Chucky), Cleo, and Carol; her husband, Arsenio; her beloved sons, Mark and Duane Velarde; her daughters, Sandra Montiel and Donna Peterson; and her son, David, who died at birth.

A mass will be held in her honor on Thursday, October 3, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Saint Patrick Catholic Church, 1058 W 400 S, Salt Lake City, Utah. Following the mass, committal services will take place at Memorial Redwood Mortuary and Cemetery, 6500 S Redwood Road, West Jordan, Utah. A visitation and sharing of memories will follow at Saint Patrick Church.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Sandstone Millcreek for the compassionate care they provided to Elsie during her stay.

Elsie’s legacy of love, strength, and warmth will forever be carried in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.