LaVelle “Vel” Dillon

Oct. 19, 1936-Feb. 2, 2016

LaVelle “Vel” Dillon, 79, died Feb. 2, 2016, at South Peninsula Hospital after a courageous battle against cancer. “Beloved wife, aunt, friend, Gammy and surrogate mother to many, she passed away peacefully with her husband by her side,” her family said.

LaVelle was born in Baker, Ore., on Oct. 19, 1936, to Nelson and Oriel Speelman. She met her husband, Spud, while living in Kennewick, Wash., in January 1960. Spud and Vel married in Spokane, Wash., on Nov. 19, 1960. In August 1963 they moved to Alaska for Spud’s job with Homer Electric Association. They shared many great adventures during their 55 years together.

LaVelle owned and operated her beauty salon, “The Powder Puff,” for 30 years in Homer. LaVelle also worked as a florist at Forget Me Not, was a bank teller at National Bank of Alaska and was an avid quilter. She made hundreds of quilts, by hand, machine and crochet. She was very generous with her time, making quilts for friends and family. She was a member of the Quilting Guild and participated in the Mother’s Day Quilt shows.

LaVelle cooked at a variety of hunting camps, while Spud guided hunters throughout the state. Camps included Post Lake, Alaska Range and Kiliuda Bay on Kodiak Island. Spud and Vel purchased property in Tutka Bay where they built and ran a fish camp/guide service for 20 years. They also hosted numerous guests at their properties on Long Lake and Caribou Lake near Homer. 

Vel is survived by her devoted husband of 55 years, Veldon “Spud” Dillon; twin brother, Vern Speelman of Talkeetna; sister, Oriel Sharp, of Pinehurst, Idaho; and many relatives, friends, and “adopted kids” throughout Alaska and especially in Homer. LaVelle will always be remembered for her kindness and friendship and will be greatly missed by her family and many, many friends. 

LaVelle’s wishes were to not have any services.

Condolences may be sent to Spud Dillon, P.O. Box 591, Homer, Alaska 99603.