Robin Therese Velker

Robin Therese Velker (née Smith), of O’Fallon, Missouri, passed away on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at the age of 61.

Beloved wife of John Velker; cherished daughter of Toni Hinkle and the late Robert Smith; devoted mother of Brooke (Daniel) Jones and Courtney (Tyler) Smith; loving bonus mother to Taylor (Gavin) Wiss; adored Mimi to Bennett, Oliver, Hayden, Brynlee, Everett, and Quinn; and dear sister of Debbie Gibbs and Dwayne (Carol) Wafe.

Robin shared 38 beautiful years of marriage with her husband, John. More than husband and wife, they were true partners in life, standing beside one another through every joy, challenge, and adventure. Together, they built a life rooted in love, laughter, and family, enjoying cruises, traveling, and making memories along the way. Through it all, their greatest joy was the life and family they created together, especially the cherished tradition of Sunday family dinners.

Creative, talented, and full of determination, Robin had a true entrepreneurial spirit. In 2010, she turned her creativity into a business when she founded Sho-Bows, “Making girls sparkle, one bow at a time.” What started as a creative venture became something she was incredibly proud of, allowing her to share her talents and passion with others for many years. She continued her business until her diagnosis brought that chapter to a close. Robin also loved crocheting, especially making countless tiny hats to share with others. Whether she was creating something beautiful or bringing an idea to life, she always put a little piece of herself into everything she made.

Robin was full of life, laughter, and just the right amount of sass. She loved celebrating birthdays, making people feel special, and ensuring everyone felt welcome. She had a heart of gold, a wonderful sense of humor, and occasionally a vocabulary that could make a sailor blush. She was simply Robin, and everyone loved her for it.

Of all the titles she held, Mimi was one of her favorites. Her grandchildren brought her endless joy, and she treasured every moment spent with them.

Robin was also a true Mama Bear, fiercely protective of those she loved and always ready to stand up for her people.

She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on through the family she adored and the countless lives she touched.

Memorial contributions may be made in Robin’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.