GRANITE FALLS — People who knew Connie Velde said she had a focus on helping others, in many different ways – she was active with her church, Granite Falls schools, farm advocacy groups and more.

“She was always willing to help somebody,” Minnesota Farmers Union President Gary Wertish said. “It was definitely a strong suit of hers.”

Wertish and other friends of Velde’s said her personality and engagement made an impact on others.

Velde died Saturday at Avera Marshall Regional Medical Center in Marshall. She was 66.

Velde grew up in Yellow Medicine County, and graduated from Clarkfield School in 1978. Connie and her husband Tim lived in rural Granite Falls, and stayed active in the area. Connie was certified as a paraprofessional for special education students, and later worked as a secretary in the Yellow Medicine East school office.

Velde was also an active volunteer with her church, and a supporter of groups like her local DFL party and the Minnesota Farmers Union.

“She put herself out there into many different areas,” said Yellow Medicine County DFL chair Laurie Driessen. She said Velde was a strong advocate for farmers through the Minnesota Farmers Union.

Wertish said Velde was also a supportive presence to MFU staff, he said. “They were deeply moved by how she made them feel welcome,” he said.

Velde was always ready with a hug if anyone needed it, Wertish added.

Velde served as the Yellow Medicine County DFL secretary for about 10 years, and she was the treasurer for the past four years, said Driessen. Velde had also served as a director with the 7th Congressional District DFL, said CD 7 DFL chair Jennifer Cronin. Connie and Tim hosted many DFL gatherings at their farm.

Cronin said Velde’s kindness and positivity showed as she worked with other Democrats in southwest Minnesota.

“Connie was an encouraging mentor for people trying to be a force for good,” Cronin said. “She was genuinely interested in what you were doing.”

When Velde volunteered for something, she was a hard worker who didn’t quit, said Ted Suss. That included for DFL party work and events, he said.

“It wasn’t just for the glory positions. She did the work,” Suss said. In addition to being active with the county and CD 7 DFL, Suss remembered Connie taking on tasks like helping serve food at DFL corn feeds in Redwood County. “She was one of the most steadfast, reliable workers we had in the party.”

“She was a warm and inviting, welcoming person,” Cronin said.

“She was always willing to be there and support people,” Driessen said. “We really miss her already.”

Funeral services for Velde will be at 11 a.m. on Feb. 21, at Granite Falls Lutheran Church. A visitation will be held Feb. 20 at the church from 6-8 p.m., with a prayer service at 7:45. Visitation will continue one hour prior to services at the church.