Vernice Hope Johnson Salmon Raben, age 75, Hot Springs, died peacefully Saturday, May 2, 2009 after a rich and full life, at times challenged by complications related to diabetes.

Vernice was born February 18, 1934 in Edgemont, SD to parents, Charles & Neva (Wickersham) Johnson. She graduated from Edgemont High School and completed cosmetology school. She married John C. 'Jack' Salmon, and together they founded Kustom Kraft Corp. in Edgemont, which became a nationally recognized giftware company. She was a member of Eastern Star, Business and Professional Women, and was involved in many community groups and clubs. She treasured entertaining friends and family at "The Lake." She was a fiercely loyal friend, successful businesswomen, active community member, artist, and musician; a woman of many gifts and talents.

Following the death of Jack Salmon, Vernice moved to Florida where she enjoyed a new chapter in her life on the Florida beaches. To be closer to her beloved mother, Vernice returned to the Black Hills and resided in the Hot Springs, SD area. There she became re-acquainted with her high school sweetheart, John H. 'Jack' Raben. Jack and Vernice were married in Red Lodge, MT. Together they blended their families, creativity and passions. They experienced a wonderful life together.

Vernice was kind, compassionate, accomplished and gracious. Her life was the epitome of the "The Strong Woman" of her time. As a loving, tender and devoted wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt and cousin, her family and her friends were always her highest priority.

Vernice will be remembered as "A woman who never met a stranger". Her warmth, generosity and giving nature quietly touched many lives. She always seemed to find the energy for an adventure, the right words for any one in need of support and encouragement, an organ tune for someone to listen or dance to, a home cooked meal, a cold drink, and sharing a 'naughty' story.

Preceded in death by parents, first husband, Jack Salmon; sisters, Lois (French); Alta 'Red' (Coleman); Opal (Reiner) and Elaine (Brown Lowe). She is survived by husband, Jack Raben; daughter, Sandra Salmon; son, John Salmon; brother, Charles Johnson; step-children, Vicky Krause; Barbara Moen; John H. Raben, II; grandchildren, Hope; Sara; Molly; Lindsey; John H. Raben, III; Aaron Y. James; great grandchildren, Jack and Max and numerous extended family and friends.

Visitation is Thursday, May 7, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Hot Springs.
Funeral services will be Friday, May 8, 2009 at 10:00 a.m., at McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Hot Springs with Dr. J. Edwin Coates officiating. Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Hot Springs.

Memorials preferred to the Fall River Health Services or to the American Diabetes Association.

"Well done, good and faithful servant".

Arrangements have been placed in the care of McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Hot Springs. Written condolences can be made at www.mccolleyschapels.com.