George Velasco Jr.'s Obituary
George Velasco Jr. was called home to heaven on November 24, 2018, after living a full and joyful life of 96 years. He was born in West Tampa on October 11, 1922. As a member of the Greatest Generation, he proudly served his country in WWII as an Army Combat Engineer in the European theater. After the war, he returned to Tampa, and was one of the first employees of Food Equipment & Supply Company when they opened their doors on Second Avenue in Ybor City, where he served as office manager and treasurer. George was greatly admired and respected by all who knew him due to his integrity and faithfulness over the years.
George brought smiles and laughter to everyone who knew him as he was always telling jokes and pulling pranks. Whether it meant wearing a silly hat and speaking in a funny voice to embarrass his mother or almost getting thrown out of the stands at a relative’s softball game for heckling the players, George liked to keep things lively. He enjoyed watching professional football, traveling, and spending time with family, especially his grandchildren. He struggled his entire life with his addiction to sweets and anyone who visited his house would remember the candy bar that he maintained “for the grandkids”.
George was preceded in death by his wife of 30 years Sadie Bolesta Velasco; parents, George Sr. and Ethel May Velasco; brother John Velasco; aunt Bessie Gonzalez; and nephew, Danny Velasco. He will be greatly missed by his wife of 37 years, Yolanda Torrens Velasco; daughter Carol Schlather and husband Jerry; son Randy George Velasco and wife Debbie; grandchildren Lauren Klein and husband Hendrik, Jessica McAlister and husband Bill, Allison Smith and husband Dieter, Jason Velasco and wife Nikki, and Jacob Velasco; great-grandsons Hunter Velasco, August Smith, and Jonas Klein; nephew David Velasco and wife Cynthia; and many other family and step-family members.
A public visitation will be held from 2 to 4 pm December 1, 2018 at Boza & Roel Funeral Home. A private family graveside service, with military honors, will be conducted at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida on Monday, December 3.
In lieu of flowers please make contributions to the Florida Baptist Children’s Home, 1015 Sikes Blvd., Lakeland, Fl 33815, FBChomes.org
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