Jose P. Velasco

Jose P. Velasco, 75 died unexpectedly, Tuesday, January 24, 2012 at Swedish American Hospital. Born Oct. 10, 1936 the son of Francisco and Teresa Velasco. Married his loving wife of 53 years, Herminia Macias. Served in the Army National Guard for 9 years and worked for over 57 years as a machinist, retiring from Rockford Powertrain after 27 years. Jose was an avid traveler and enjoyed camping, fishing and golfing and also taught classes at Rock Valley College in blueprint reading. He was a true family man and was a wonderful father and grandfather.Survivors include his wife, Herminia; children, Joy Ellen Lundgren, Silvia Velasco, Susanna (Martin) Avila, Sandra Mendoza and Jose (Candy) Jr. all of Rockford and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Robert. Funeral Mass, Saturday, January 28, 2012 at St. Patrick Catholic Church at 10 a.m. Interment in Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Visitation Friday, January 27, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Mulford Chapel from 57 p.m. with a rosary service to be recited at 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers memorials to the family.