Devon Irene Tatar-Velasquez

Devon Irene Tatar-Velasquez, 32, of Cheat Lake, passed away peacefully Sunday evening, July 24, 2016 at her home, surrounded by her loving family following a bravely fought three-year battle with cancer. Devon was born on October 20, 1983 to Duane Edward Tatar, Sr. and Dawn LaVerne (Johnson) Tatar in Cadillac, Michigan. She lived in Reed City, MI with her family until she was 12 at which time the family moved to Morgantown, WV. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her husband of five years, Axel Anthony Velasquez; her brother, DJ Tatar along with his companion (and the sister she always wanted) Mindy Schempf, and her nephew, Wyatt Tatar of Cheat Lake; her paternal grandmother, Linda Tatar of Hersey, MI; her maternal grandmother, Barbara Johnson of Durand, MI; and several aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family members. Devon was preceded in death by her paternal grandfather, Joseph Tatar, and her maternal grandfather, Francis Johnson. Devon was very proud of her nephew, Wyatt, as well as the friendships that she held dear since childhood and the new friendships she made that helped keep her strong through her struggles. In her younger years, she enjoyed figure skat...[more]

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, competing in many competitions throughout the United States, and taught adult and youth skating classes. She was a 2001 graduate of University High School, and obtained an associate's degree in dental hygiene from West Liberty University in 2004 and was a member of Chi Omega Sorority. Recently, Devon helped manage the family business and enjoyed working every day with her mom. She was a member of the Morgantown Elks Lodge #411, volunteering in many charitable events throughout the years. Devon was the Keynote speaker for Making Strides in 2013. She loved reading, listening to all different types of music, and all things Jimmy Buffett. But for Devon, family and friends were the most important part of her life! Friends may join Devon's family in honoring her life and legacy at Smith Funeral & Cremation Care, 108 Holland Ave., Morgantown on Friday, July 29, 2016 from 4-8 PM and again on Saturday, July 30, 2016 from 10 AM until the time of the funeral service at 12 Noon with her cousin, Tom Johnson, officiating. Interment will take place at a later date, privately for the immediate family. Morgantown Elks Lodge #411 will hold a memorial service at 7:30 PM Friday in the funeral home to conclude the evening visitation. Devon's family is honoring her wishes by celebrating her life rather than mourning her loss. In doing so, guests at the funeral home are encouraged to dress "Jimmy Buffett casual." In lieu of flowers, guests are encouraged to make donations to Making Strides of North Central WV, C/O the American Cancer Society, 122 S. High St., Morgantown, WV 26501. Please specify the donation is for Making Strides. To send personal condolences and other symbolic gestures, please visit, www.smithfuneralandcremationcare.com.