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Laurie Velez, 54

Laurie Kay Velez, 54, was welcomed into Heaven on Aug. 24, 2017, just seven weeks after being diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. Until that time, she was a beautiful, vivacious and active, wife, mother, grandmother, daughter and superb jewelry sales professional. She was passionate about traveling to warm beaches, playing golf, bowling, and any activity that provided her time with her family and friends.

The beloved daughter of Don (deceased) and Carolyn Andersen, Laurie was born on Aug. 10, 1963, in Anaheim, Calif. She grew up in the sports world, loving her father’s career at USC, the World Football League, and the Seattle Seahawks. She and her daughter, Aleah, moved to Idaho in 1986, where she met and fell in love with Stephan Velez, whom she married in July 2000. She and Stephan enjoyed motorcycle trips, National bowling tournaments across the country and any opportunity to visit a town with casino games.

Laurie is survived by her husband, Stephan; daughter Aleah and husband Anthony; mother Carolyn; stepdaughter Stephanie and husband William; and three grandchildren (soon to be four).

No formal service is planned, but a celebration of life will take place in September.

Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Laurie’s memorial and sign her online guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.