Joel Velasco Zacarias

On Saturday, January 28, 2023 at 3:39 pm at the age of 60, after a long battle against Leukemia, Joel Velasco left this world to follow his mother (Mama Jose), leaving his wife Irma Fernandez, his son Erick Velasco and his daughter Dulce Ferrer to move on without him. Joel was always a faithful husband, a loving father, a sweet and tender grandfather, a strong, intelligent, fighting and pious man. He was always a very hard-working, honest, simple and dedicated man to his family. He taught us to work, to be honest and with our feet on the ground. As a father he was strict and had a firm hand, although over time he softened, I don't know if it's because of learning or exhaustion, perhaps because of both. He was always concerned that his family lacked nothing and for the well-being of his loved ones. The love for his wife and his children and granddaughters was enormous, he always looked out for them until his last day. He went out of his way for his granddaughters and filled them with love and affection. Joel was an endless source of wisdom, stories, and life experience to everyone, but especially his granddaughters. Joel taught his granddaughters that life is to enjoy every second, to give oneself to others without expecting anything in return, to share, to be strong and face life's changes with courage; as well as humility and accept what life brings with gratitude and a smile. The love for their granddaughters was so immense and reciprocated by them that with a hug from their grandfather they cured their sadness and fear, that extraordinary grandfather who with a smile took away their anger, those brown eyes that made them feel big when they saw them, dear and special. He was also very loved by his children, his wife, family and friends. Wherever he went, the place lit up with his presence, earning everyone's respect and affection. Joel loved his profession and was very proud of all his accomplishments in this country. Shoulder to shoulder Joel and Irma Went ahead fulfilling the American Dream, thus fulfilling and exercising the saying that always took it forward "You have to always want it." Joel's departure was so unexpected, it broke our hearts and left us feeling lonely and heartbroken. We always saw Joel as strong and healthy as an oak, despite his illness he never gave up, always giving 100% in his role as a loving husband, caring for his wife and as a protective father, he was a light and guide to everyone of us. Even when we took him to the hospital on the recommendation of his doctor, and with all the anguish we never lost faith that he would recover, we saw him big, strong and eager to overcome his illness. Perhaps for this reason, in addition to the circumstances, the news of his death has been an even harder blow and more difficult for everyone to digest. It only remains for me to thank the time, the teachings and the moments that we lived with him. Joel you left too soon we are all devastated. Thank you for all your teachings, your firm hand, advice, and care. We are who we are thanks to you and your great example. You were and still are a person very loved by many people. Your ability to deal and speak with people everywhere was always admirable. Today we bid you farewell, Joel Velasco with that serenity and temperance that have always characterized you, and the great affection of a community that embraces your memory and is infinitely grateful for your legacy of strength and humility that you left for future generations. We miss you very much Joel. See you in heaven. Rest in peace. Viewing will be held 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM Saturday, February 11th, 2023 at Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel, 127 E. Caldwell Ave., Visalia. Mass of Christian Burial services will be held 12:00 PM Saturday, February 11th, 2023 at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 608 N. Church Street, Visalia. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Joel Velasco Zacarias

June 29, 1962 - January 28, 2023