Kevin R. Velle, 55, died unexpectedly, Thursday, January 7. Born in Newark, N.J., he was the son of the late Rudy and Sally Velle. Kevin moved to Mystic in 1962 and was a graduate of Stonington High School.
He was an antique and restoration dealer for many years, operating as Kevin Velle Antiques. He was one of the founding dealers of The Antique and Artisan Center in Stamford. In addition to his commitment of more than 12 years to The Center, he was an active “Stella” dealer and Brimfield dealer, participating in hundreds of antique shows around the area.
He was a member of the Isabel O’Neil Studio, where he practiced the art of the painted finish. He took his craft to many pieces of furniture and design and was known through the industry for his work. Kevin was known as a “dealer’s dealer.”
He leaves his two sisters: Dawn V. Mershon and her husband, John, of Mystic, and their daughters, Stephanie Shawn, Betsy Cipriano and Christine Mitchell; Denise V. Flaman and her husband, Larry, of California and their children, Travis Flaman and Courtney Garcia. He is also survived by his brother William Scott Velle and his wife, Kathy of Narragansett, and their daughters, Kristin and Katrina Velle.
The family will receive friends to remember Kevin on Tuesday, January 26, from 6 to 8 pm, at The Antique and Artisan Center, 69 Jefferson Street, Stamford. For questions, call Ron Scinto at 203-327-6022. Donations in Kevin’s name can be made to the Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center Food Bank, 27 Chase Street, Pawcatuck CT 06370.
