Velma ''Tiny'' Rachael Buchanan
January 8, 1916 - August 27, 2006
Obituary
Velma Rachael ”Tiny” Buchanan
Born January 8, 1916 to Seth and Anna Barker in rural King County, Washington. Velma lived out her entire life in Seattle and spent many of her happiest moments on Anderson Island where she left this world peacefully on August 27, 2006. She is survived by her youngest sister Thelma Lawrence one of the Fabulous 4 Barker Girls, her daughter LeeAnn Farrell, her son John W. ”Bill” Buchanan, nine grandchildren, twenty four great grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren as well as five nieces and one nephew. Her life revolved around serving others, working hard and loving life. She was happiest when surrounded by her family and friends.
Velma was married at age 17 and raised her family in Seattle. She and her husband Bill helped with the war effort by taking in boarders. With friends and family, no one ever needed an invitation. Their house was the ”Hub”, with Tiny, always a most gracious hostess. Velma worked at Hormel Packing Company and earned her real estate license working at E.H. Savage. During the 1950’s Velma and her husband formed a construction company along with Bill’s sister Romine and brother-in-law Hugh Johnson, Buchanan and Johnson.. In 1962 Buchanan and Johnson opened a restaurant, ”Flor de Mexico” at the Seattle World’s Fair, one of the first Mexican restaurants in Seattle. Later, Tiny went to work for Fredrick and Nelson downtown Seattle in cosmetics. She also spent many years with the King County Housing Authority as manager of two large housing projects. Velma retired from the workforce in the 80’s after working for McKenna Farrell.
Better known as Tiny, the vibrant redhead was always ”on the go”, playing cards, picking blackberries, walking the beach looking for agates, reading, cooking and baking. She loved her many travels with John and LeeAnn and was a wonderful travel companion. Tiny left a legacy that is unmatched and we will carry that through the generations to come.
Memorial services will be held on Wednesday, September 6, 2006 at 12:30pm at Bonney-Watson Washington Memorial, 16445 International Blvd., SeaTac, WA 98188 206 242-1787.
A lunch reception will follow.
Memorials may be made in Velma’s memory to the Union Gospel Mission, P.O. Box 202, Seattle, WA 98111.
Will miss seeing her at her
Anderson Island home.
She was a sweet lady.
How beautiful she is.
What a wonderful, happy, full life Velma led. Her family, I am certain, are proud and thankful for all the memories. Bette and Gene
Will miss your bubbly presence at all the get togethers. You were an inspiration. Our deepest sympathy to all your family.