Valerie was born December 8, 1998 in Lincoln, Nebraska to Wade and Julie Colson. She grew up and received her education in Lincoln at Humman Elementary School, Hazel Scott Middle School, and Lincoln Southwest High School.
Her headstrong personality and love of life was apparent at a young age. She belly-laughed during piggy back rides with her father and was a daddy’s girl from the start. She and her mom also shared a tight knit relationship and loved to cuddle while singing “You are My Sunshine” and watching chick flicks. She cherished her time with her brother when he talked with her about life and had a very special connection with Boppa, sharing many inside jokes and giggles. She was active in her family’s extra-curriculars while growing up: attending countless baseball games, running races with her brother, and hanging out at the farm. Some of her favorite activities in Elsie included riding in the combine, swinging on the front porch with grandpa and grandma, and horseback riding lessons. She lit up during swimming lessons, late night reading sessions with her Dad, getting pedicures with Mom, listening to music and dancing with anyone who wanted to join in, and even the occasional putting on makeup and going to prom.
She metamorphized into a faith-filled adult without letting her developing disease hinder her. She carried her cross with the grace of Mary witnessing her son’s crucifixion, and she blossomed into the Catholic faith with zeal, loving every sacrament she received, but was especially fond of praying the rosary. She loved everyone she met without reservation and never hesitated to pray for their intentions. She was an example for others who were exploring the Faith and was the sunshine that allowed them to soar. Her smile and laugh not only lit up the room, but also the hearts of everyone she met.
She waits in a meadow of butterflies for those that survive her: Her parents Wade and Julie Colson, and brother Andrew Colson of Lincoln, Nebraska, her aunts and uncles Michael and Gena Knust of Shawnee Mission, Kansas, Miles and Christy Colson of Imperial, Nebraska, her grandparents Glenn and Patricia Knust of Grand Island, Nebraska, and Glenn and Dixie Colson of Elsie Nebraska, and her cousins Laurel and Jackson Knust of Shawnee Mission, Kansas, and Ella, Kate, and Brady Colson of Imperial, Nebraska.
Mass of Christian Burial, Thursday, May 10, at 2:00 pm, St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 4500 Duxhall Drive, Lincoln. Visitation, Wednesday, 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm; one hour before services Thursday, Rosary, 8:00 pm, Wednesday, all at the church. Condolences may be left at trumpmemorials.com. Trump Funeral Services, 1600 West “O” Street, Lincoln are handling the arrangements.
My prayers are with Valerie’s family. When seeing Valerie in my office in times past, I was always impressed with how loving and dedicated her family was. God’s blessings and mercy to all.
We are so saddened to learn about your precious Valerie! What a darling picture of her, so pretty. God bless you all and give you his peace. Love, Tom and Connie Seevers
It has been an honor and privilege to be Valerie’s Godparents and to pray for her and with her! The impression of her infectious smile will never leave our minds and hearts! We are so sorry for your loss and pray for continued strength and Peace. You were the perfect parents and family for Valerie showing us all how to live life to the fullest no matter what through Valerie, and with zeal and zest for God. Your faith in God and His divine providence set a perfect example for all of what true love is by how you loved Valerie and by how she was able to love back.
There is no pain so deep and far reaching as the pain of losing your child. May God rest her soul in peace! Cesljic Family
What a beautiful picture you chose if Valerie so happy for her senior photos she was beyond special. She had a spirit and soul like no other and we are already seeing miracles because of her. We promise to watch out for your parents and Andrew. And butterflies !! Love you forever. Mema and Boppa
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. To lose someone you love is to gain an angel you know.
An absolutely beautiful young lady in so many ways! And a beautiful family! Prayers for you all.
Mike Murphy
Thank you for sharing your story and your daughter with us, know that you’ll be in my prayers. Mary at Gloria Deo
Valerie had a terrific smile and I always enjoyed talking to her at the boys baseball games or at your home. May you find peace and comfort with family and friends, and prayers to you and your entire family.
I worked with Valerie when she was at Humann, and her smile always made my day! I am so sorry for your loss, and I will be praying for your family!
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your precious daughter! I cannot imagine what you are all going through, but you are in my thoughts and prayers. Hang on to the wonderful memories to help you through this very difficult time.