Julio Calderón Velázquez

Born on September 7, 1949, in Caguas, Puerto Rico, to Julio Calderón Sr. and Anastasia Velázquez, Julio was affectionately known as “Junior.” He was the youngest of 12 children: Esteban “Tito” Calderón Serrano, Virginia “Chin” Betancourt, Carmen “Delia” Vergara, Germán Garcia, Felipe “Felito” Calderón Velázquez, Carmen “Iris” Calderón, Angel “Purico” Calderón Velázquez, Maria “Julia” Calderón, Maria “Luisa” Calderón, and David Calderón Velázquez. Julio embraced his roots as a true Jíbaro, growing up working on the family farm while excelling in his studies.

After graduating from Jose Gautier Benitez High School, he attended the University of Puerto Rico in Rio Piedras before proudly enlisting in the U.S. Army, following in the footsteps of his older brother. In 1972, fate led him to meet Aida Aponte of Caguas, Puerto Rico far away from their hometown and all the way in Chicago, where they were both visiting family and friends. On December 1, 1973, Julio married the love of his life. Their union was a testament of partnership and fulfilling their vows until his last breath. For 51 years, Julio and Aida created a legacy of family and cherished memories. Julio was a devoted, compassionate, and dependable father to his three children: Raiza Calderón, Azalia Miranda and Julio Calderón III. He was also a doting grandfather to his grandchildren: Xaviel Miranda and Bianca Miranda.

Julio’s career was dedicated to banking and finance, culminating in his retirement from JP Morgan Bank in 2001. Beyond his profession, he was deeply involved in his faith, actively serving in various ministries at Nativity and Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. He found purpose and joy in the Cursillos de Cristiandad, Legion de María, serving as a Lector and Eucharistic Minister, and even helping to establish the Latino Youth Group. His faith was the foundation of his life, guiding him with strength and purpose.

In retirement, Julio cherished time with his family, especially embracing every moment with his grandchildren. Julio looked forward to the days he and Aida would pick them up after school for a forbidden sweet treat. Serving God and his spending time with his family were of the utmost importance to him and what brought joy in his life. Julio also had a passion for music, dancing, playing the congas, and soaking up the sun at the beach. He was a born handyman, able to fix nearly anything, even long before YouTube and DIYs became popular.

Julio will be remembered for his infectious humor, warm smile, and larger-than-life personality. His unwavering faith, dedication to family, and boundless love will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

Rest in peace to the Great Julio Calderón. Your everlasting light will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those you loved.