Jose Antonio Velazco Ramirez

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Jose Antonio Velazco was a long-time resident of Selma and passed away at the age of 68 on December 29, 2023, after a long battle with chronic illnesses. He was born on November 1, 1955, in Guadalajara, Mexico to Rodolfo and Rebecca Velazco.

He grew up and completed his education in Mexico. Jose’s passion was playing soccer and since at a very early age often played 3 full games per day. Following in his dad’s footsteps, “Toño” as he was normally called, went professional before his 18th birthday. He played for the “reservas de las Chivas” and then for the “Jaivas Bravas del Tampico Madero”.  Toño opted to come to the US where he was soon recruited and paid by semi-professional soccer teams, the Tulare Angrense and Hanford Benfica.

It was through soccer that he met Esperanza, “Espi,” got married to her and had 4 children together.  Jose worked primarily as a cannery warehouse worker and forklift driver.

Jose is survived by his former wife Espi Velazco, his four children Jessica Velazco, Vanessa Carrillo, Jose Velazco and Paul Velazco, sons-in law Anthony and Joseph and daughter-in-law Ana. He is also survived by his siblings, Socorro, Martha, Graciela, Rodolfo, Rebecca, Raquel, Angelica, Magarita, Adriana and Berenice. He had 11 grandchildren and many nephews and nieces.

Jose Antonio Velazco, “Toño” or “el Ollas,” as known by his soccer friends, will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

All funeral services will be in Selma.  Viewing and Rosary will be Thursday January 25, 2024, from 4-8 pm at Thomas-Marcom funeral home.

 The funeral mass will be Friday January 26, 2024, at 12 pm at St. Joseph's church with burial service to follow at Floral cemetery. The Celebration of Life will follow after the burial at the Portuguese Hall from 2:00 - 6:00 pm.

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