Verna A. Valencia, 86, Minot and formerly of Aptos, CA, died Tuesday, July 21, 2009, at a Minot nursing home.

Verna was born January 26, 1923, in Garfield County, near Jordan, MT the daughter of Alfred J. and Minnie (Carlson) Hawkinson. She was raised and educated in Garfield County, where she graduated Valedictorian of Garfield County High School in 1939.

Verna was united in marriage to John Valencia. They made their home in Aptos, CA for over 40 years, where she enjoyed her view of the Pacific Ocean. Verna was employed by the City of San Francisco as a secretary for over 30 years.

Following John's death in 1993, Verna continued to reside in Aptos until her health required a move to Minot in 2008 to be near family.

Surviving family includes: Numerous nieces and nephews, including: Gina (Dale) Zerr, Minot, John (Karen) Hawkinson, Miles City, MT, Chuck (Vivian) Hawkinson, Buffalo, WY and Terry (Ilene) Hawkinson, Conrad, MT and many cousins.

Verna was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Woodrow Hawkinson.

Graveside Service: Friday, July 31, 2009, at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Cross Cemetery, Santa Cruz, CA.