Shirley A. Veach

Shirley A. (Bensman) Veach, age 95, of Richmond, IN, formerly of Minster, Ohio died peacefully on June 2, 2024, in her home in Richmond, Indiana, surrounded by her children. She was born on May 13, 1929 in Minster, Ohio to the late Elmer & Mathilda (Fisher) Bensman.  She married William John Veach on February 19, 1966. He preceded her in death on April 11, 2021.  She is survived by her children: John Veach, Jennie Veach and Tony Truitt, granddaughter Baleigh Veach.

Shirley attended school in Minster and after graduation began working at Goodyear Tires, a job she relished for nearly 20 years. Her most favorite pastime was dancing so it is fitting that she met Bill on the dance floor of the Crystal Ball. Shirley and Bill were married at St. Augustine Church on February 19, 1966 and moved to Richmond, IN.

Shirley and Bill spent family time with their kids on the lake waterskiing and looking for blue herons or attending football games at Notre Dame or basketball games at Xavier University.  Shirley and Bill owned Veach’s store which started as a five-and-dime variety store and eventually became a fabulous toy store chuck full of novel, unique and educational toys. Shirley enjoyed wrapping toys for under the Christmas tree and visiting with customers during the holiday season.

Shirley’s heart never truly left Minster and she cherished her German Catholic roots. She visited Minster often to see family and friends.  Shirley’s favorite day of the year was Sunday during Oktoberfest.  Shirley’s first stop was the Minster historical display at the school gym where she would usually meet a Bensman relative.  Shirley loved the parade, and she clapped along as the calliope cruised by to end the parade with the most joyful smile on her face.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 AM Friday, June 7, 2024 at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Minster.  A burial will follow at St. Augustine Cemetery. Friends may call 8:30 AM -9:30 AM on Friday at Hogenkamp Funeral Home in Minster.

Memorial contributions may be made to Reid Hospice and Rustic Hope. Condolences may be made at www.hogenkampfh.com.