Bienvenido “Papo” Velazquez passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones on Thursday May 9, 2024 after a brave battle with cancer.
Born in Guayama, Puerto Rico on June 18, 1955 to Daniel Velázquez and Feliciana (Ramos). He graduated with his Bachelors in Education from La Universidad Interamericana de Puerto Rico in 1981. Later furthering his education by earning his Masters from Bridgewater State College in 1986.
He worked as a Special Education teacher for the Worcester Public Schools of Massachusetts for more than 20 years. Later teaching for the Providence Public Schools of Rhode Island until his retirement in 2019. His passion for education never ceasing he continued to work until March of 2024 as a substitute teacher for the Pawtucket Public Schools of Rhode Island.
His passion for education was matched only by his passion for music. Whether listening to soft jazz on his Alexa, showing off his footwork to the salsa beat, or playing on his percussion instruments, typical to his native Puerto Rico, Mr. Velázquez lived his life with music in his heart. He was a proud member of the Pleneros del Coco, a bomba and plena band that played throughout New England in places such as the halfshell in Boston, WPI and First Night Providence, sharing not just the music of the island but the history.
Mr. Velázquez will be remembered for his warm smile, his kindness and his love for his family. Never one to say no to someone in need, his impact will be felt by a multitude and his loss will be grieved for lifetimes.
Mr. Velázquez was preceded in death by his son Luis D. Velázquez; 4 brothers Samuel Velázquez; Daniel Velázquez; Jorge Núñez; Eduardo Veláquez; 2 sisters Wanda Velázquez; Ruth Velázquez Amoros.
He is survived by his wife Ramona (De Jesus) Velázquez; his 3 children Wanda Huertas of Worcester; Martin Velázquez of Providence; and Omari Flanagan of New Haven, CT; his grandchildren Sabrina Gonzalez, Alyssa Gonzalez, Gabriel Huertas, Kassandra Velázquez, Kayla Velázquez, Kiara Velázquez, and Kaylani Velázquez; his son in law Noel Huertas; daughter in law Doris Velázquez; 4 sisters; Magdalena, Iluminada, Consuelo, and Elizabeth; 2 brothers Israel, and Benjamin and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held at Funeraria de Pedro in Guayama Puerto Rico with burial following at Cementerio Municipal de Guayama.