Lester "Les" Veltman, Jr., peacefully passed away on January 29, 2026. Born on March 24, 1936 in San Antonio, TX, Les was a beloved man known for his outgoing and fun-loving character. His legacy of lifelong friendships and ability to connect with anyone will always be cherished by those fortunate enough to have known him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Susan Dillingham Veltman and his family, including his children, Cindy Wood (Mark, deceased) of Houston, TX, Krista Valluzzo (Chris) of Baton Rouge, LA, Lee Veltman of Tulsa, OK, Melissa Buerge (Steve) of Highlands Ranch, CO, Zach Dillingham (Alicia) of Kelso, WA; as well as his brother, John Veltman of Boerne, TX. He was also blessed with 9 grandchildren, Mackenzie, Margana, Harrison, Murphy, Pierson, Clare, Ben, Ryan and Caroline. Preceding him in death were his daughter, Laura Solliday, his former wife, Gayna Veltman and his parents, Lester and Gladys Veltman.

Les lived a fulfilling life. After graduating from Rice University in Houston, TX in 1959 and attending the UT MBA program in Austin, he moved to Tulsa, OK in 1963 where he later founded Veltman Insurance. His interests were varied and enriching.  He loved the art of Mucha and his beloved Rice Owls “hoot, hoot.” Les enjoyed coaching football games and mentoring young athletes in golf and football and was an enthusiastic golfer and skier, particularly in Crested Butte, CO, one of his favorite places.  

Known for his gift of gab, he maintained a wide circle of lifelong friends. Achievements we’ve all heard about include playing in the Cotton Bowl, participating in the Adaptive Sports Center of Crested Butte’s golf tournament for 30 years, and winning 3 Swingaroos at Southern Hills Country Club.

A celebration of Les' life will take place 11:00 a.m. March 24, 2026 at St. John's Episcopal Church in Tulsa.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Adaptive Sports Center of Crested Butte, PO Box 1639, Crested Butte, CO 81224 or St John’s Episcopal Church Les Veltman Memorial, 4200 S. Atlanta Place, Tulsa, OK 74105.

While we will deeply miss him, Les’ spirit lives on through the cherished memories he has left us. His enduring legacy of friendships, love, and a boundless enthusiasm for life will continue to inspire all who had the pleasure of crossing paths with him.

Ninde Funeral & Cremation | (918) 742-5556 | ninde.com