Elvira "Vera" Veronika Blanco's Obituary
Elvira (Vera) Veronika Blanco, 92, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2026, at the Westminster Oaks Nursing facility after a long illness. A long-time resident of Tampa, Florida, Vera relocated to Crawfordville in 2021 to be closer to family.
Born in Zweibrücken, Germany, Vera’s early life was marked by immense strength and resilience. She survived World War II, enduring the hardships of being a refugee three separate times. In 1956, she immigrated to the United States, bringing with her a fierce work ethic and a vibrant spirit.
Vera was a brilliant businesswoman who successfully invested in real estate, but her true passion was children. As the long-time owner of Vera's Kindergarten in Tampa, she poured her heart into teaching, loving, and helping to raise generations of local children.
Vera took immense pride in everything she did. She kept a meticulous home and a beautifully tended garden. She also remained active and social throughout her life, enjoying her bowling league and making friends in her "Silver Sneakers" gym program.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert, to whom she was married for 63 years, before his passing in 2019. She was also preceded in death by her cherished son, Ruben, in 2022; her parents, Otto and Hilde Strasser; and her two sisters, Hilde Keller and Brigitte Hauck.
Vera’s memory will be kept alive by her family and many friends, including her daughter, Daña, and her husband, Tim Douglas; and her two grandchildren, Rebecca and Marlin Blanco.
There are no formal services planned. Her ashes will be scattered together with her husband’s and son’s, reuniting them in peace.
What’s your fondest memory of Elvira "Vera"?
What’s a lesson you learned from Elvira "Vera"?
Share a story where Elvira "Vera"'s kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Elvira "Vera" you’ll never forget.
How did Elvira "Vera" make you smile?