Bernard Louis Vela Obituary (1936

Bernard L. Vela, 78, of Oelwein, Iowa died on Sunday morning, December 7, 2014 at Mercy Hospital of Franciscan Sisters in Oelwein. Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 A.M. Thursday, December 11, 2014 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Oelwein, with Rev. Paul C. McManus and Deacon Jim Patera officiating. Visitation: 4-7 P.M. on Wednesday at the Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home, Oelwein. Rosary: 4 P.M. Wednesday at the funeral home. Scripture Service: 7 P.M. Wednesday at the funeral home. Interment: Woodlawn Cemetery, Oelwein, Iowa. A Memorial Fund has been established for Sacred Heart Catholic Church and School. Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com Bernard Louis Vela was born on July 24, 1936 in Oelwein, Iowa the son of Peter J. Vela, Sr. and Mary C. (Vesh) Vela. He graduated from Sacred Heart High School in 1954 and Gates Business College in Waterloo in 1956. Bernie worked at Mike's IGA for four years during high school. Following college Bernie worked at John Deere Component Works in Waterloo for 29 years, retiring on May 31, 1985. Bernie was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and Rosary Society. He enjoyed reading about history and collecting coins and stamps. Bernie is survived by his 2 Sisters: Ruth Staton of Oelwein & Mary Eick of Oelwein and Many Nieces & Nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother: Peter Vela, Jr.