Velma Dunn, a renowned platform diver, was born on October 9, 1918, in Monrovia, California. Her mother, a dedicated schoolteacher, played a significant role in shaping Velma's early life.
Velma's introduction to swimming and diving began at the YMCA in Pasadena, California, where she learned the fundamental skills of the sport. She continued to hone her craft at the Pasadena Athletic Club, where she developed a passion for the sport.
In 1932, Velma attended the Olympic Games in Los Angeles, California, which had a profound impact on her life. Inspired by her experience, she began competing in Amateur Athletic Union meets with the L.A. Athletic Club.
In 1935, Velma won the junior national championships in diving, a remarkable achievement that set her on the path to success. The following year, she placed second in the Olympic tryouts, demonstrating her exceptional talent.
At the age of seventeen, Velma won the silver medal in the 10-meter platform event at the 1936 Olympics in Berlin, Germany. This remarkable achievement cemented her status as a champion platform diver.
Following her Olympic success, Velma enrolled at the University of Southern California, where she earned both a Bachelor's and Master's Degree in physical education. She also received a teaching credential from USC.
Velma's teaching career spanned several decades, during which she taught physical education, water ballet, synchronized swimming, and lifesaving techniques at various schools, including Huntington Park High School and South Gate Junior High.
In 1943, Velma married Howard Ploessel, a swimmer and swimming instructor. The couple moved to San Pedro, California, where Howard taught Army soldiers how to swim at Fort MacArthur, and Velma taught physical education and water sports at San Pedro High.
After taking a break from teaching to raise her children, Velma resumed her teaching career in 1953 at South Gate Junior High, where she remained until her retirement in 1980.
Throughout her life, Velma remained committed to the Olympic Games, volunteering for the 1984 L.A. Olympics and participating in the torch relay for the 1996, 2000, and 2002 Olympics.
Velma passed away on May 8, 2007, at the age of 88, following a stroke at the Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital in Whittier, California. She left behind a legacy of achievement, including her daughter Nancy, son Dennis, and grandchildren Bryan, Eric, and Jeremy.
