Veralu (Sam) Paulson Smith Mason

1930 ~ 2016

I am writing this to say "See Ya'Later" and "Thank You" to all of you who have made my life so wonderful. To those of you who have given me so much kindness, love, and laughter. You have my sincere gratitude.

I was born in Salt Lake City onJan.1, 1930 TO Estelle Blanche Tobias and Earl Theodore Paulson. I was the youngest of 4 children, and was a challenge for my mom and pop. I had a great childhood. I fished, hunted and "could shoot the socks of a rooster"with my single shot 22 (as my Pop always said). My dear Mom taught me to sew and cook. I felt that I could do anything and tried everything…

I married the love of my life and my "IDEAL" husband Merlin C. Mason ("Doc" to all who knew and loved him) February 13, 1972. We had such an incredible life. He was my best friend. We fished, hunted, bowled, camped, golfed, traveled (much by motor home), and a little gambling at various places. We had such fun. We always made each other laugh. He always told me that we were made for each other… Doc went to heaven February 7, 2001 (15 years to the day before me) to check out the fishing spots for us.

I have 4 children, 3 wonderful sons. Dane Smith (Gloria), Rock Smith (Sherrie), and Randy Smith (who has always been there for me through thick and thin). I adore them and their wives. And I have a very talented daughter, Tracy Smith (Randy). Doc and I enjoyed the good times we had with the "Kids" and "Grand Kids"...

I had so much fun with my 8 grandchildrenCamie (Silk), Amy (Sam), Brandon ( Shellon), Jesse, Toby (Melissa), Codie (Cassie), Mason and Vera. Watching them grow up and being a part of their lives was such a joy…. We had great times on our trips, much swimming, and our overnight sleepovers. We sang and laughed all the time… I do hope they remember the crazy good times that we had. Brandon,I thank you for the extra love you gave to me… You never forgot! I have 14 adorable great grandchildren. My Step-son Dan G. Mason, and his wife Yvonne, have been so thoughtful and caring. I do appreciate the love and kindness they gave me. Thank you so very much.

Right now I am with Doc having a bloody mary and we will soon go down to the stream where the big fish hang out. . . Happy Fishing!

No funeral, no viewing, no grieving. . . the beauty all around us is overwhelming. . . take time to stop and smell the flowers!