John Fermin Velasquez

John was born on June 27, 1953, to Joe B Velasquez and Viola J Mondragon in Montrose, Colorado. After graduating from North High School in Denver, Colorado he attended Colorado State University. He was so proud to be the first Velasquez to earn a bachelor’s degree from a 4-year University.

John's life story is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Starting as a meter reader and rising to become a Manager in Customer Care at Xcel Energy-Colorado over 35 years is a remarkable journey. It's heartwarming to know that he not only found professional success but also lifelong friendships and love during his career, sharing the last 25 years of his life with his wife, Anna.

In retirement, John found a perfect blend of purpose and leisure by working at the Legacy Ridge Golf Course, where he could enjoy the beauty of morning sunrises while mowing grass. His commitment to staying connected to his faith and community is admirable, as evidenced by his deepening Catholic faith, regular mass attendance, and involvement in charitable efforts, such as organizing the annual church golf tournament and volunteering at the Catholic bazaar.

One of the most cherished experiences of John's life was traveling to Israel with Anna, where he could connect his faith with the Holy Land. This journey must have been a profound and meaningful experience for him.

John's love for life's simple pleasures, like watching the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday afternoons and fulfilled a dream of his attending a Dallas Cowboys game at AT&T Stadium. His other passions included playing golf with friends and family, and celebrating special occasions with loved ones, which reflects his joyful and positive outlook on life. His sense of humor, willingness to help others, and encouraging attitude made him a beloved figure among those who knew him. And, of course, his big bright smile will be a cherished memory for all who had the privilege of knowing him.

John's life serves as an inspiration and a reminder of the importance of hard work, faith, family, and enjoying life's moments to the fullest. His legacy will undoubtedly live on through the memories and the positive impact he had on the lives of those around him.

John is survived by his wife Anna Velasquez, his children: Christina Trujillo (Travis Trujillo), Jaime Sanchez (Kelly Sanchez), Tammie Griego (Stephen Griego), Hollie Velasquez Horvath (Bryon Horvath), Jonnie Pattay (Eric Pattay). John is also survived by his pride and joy, his 10 grandchildren; Angelica Manzanares, Brooklynn Griego, Gina Griego, Damon Sanchez, Regan Shock, Alexandra Griego, Reiyah Harn, Olivia Griego, and Chase and Lillian Horvath.

John is also survived by his brothers Eddie Velasquez, David Velasquez, Rocky Velasquez, and sister Marilyn Rozales.

John is preceded in death by his parents Joe B Velasquez and Viola J Mondragon, sister Madelyn Almanza and brother Frank Velasquez.

John joined our Heavenly Father on September 24, 2023, and he was cremated on September 28, 2023.

A Rosary and Service will take place at Holy Family Catholic Church on October 6th, 2023, commencing at 9:00 am. A Celebration of Life Luncheon will follow at Holy Family Catholic Church. The placement of his remains will commence at 1:30 pm, following the luncheon, at Olinger Highland Cemetery.

In Lieu of Flowers, please send donations to Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 4688 Pearl Street, Denver, Colorado 80216 or Donate – Done al Santo Rosario | holyrosarydenver.

Please click the following link to be given directions from Holy Family Catholic Church to Olinger Highland Cemetery for the committal ceremony after the funeral mass: https://maps.app.goo.gl/UTNqSxnWVdzSUNfb8