Obituary of Jose Velez Panasco

Jose Damaso Velez Panasco, age 85, beloved husband of Ana Dias Panasco of Oxford, died May 27, 2013 at Griffin Hospital. Born on January 11, 1928 in Avis, Portugal. He was the son of José and Rosa Velez Panasco. Mr. Panasco immigrated to the U.S in 1979 and settled in Bridgeport, later moving to Oxford in 2001. He was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. He enjoyed spending time with his family and loved fishing. He worked as a surveyor in Portugal and later was employed by Caldor Department Stores before retiring in 1998. In addition to his wife of nearly 52 years, he is survived by his devoted children, José (Griselda) Velez of Bridgeport, John (Julie Ann) Velez of Stratford, Fernando (Tara) Velez of Bridgeport, and Rosa (Tony) Pereira of Oxford; a brother, Elisiario Velez of Portugal; 10 cherished grandchildren; and 2 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Mr. Panasco was predeceased by three brothers. A Mass of Christian Burial, MEETING DIRECTLY AT CHURCH, will be celebrated on Friday, May 31, 2013 at 10:00 am in St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 733 Oxford Rd., Oxford. Interment will follow in Southford Cemetery, Oxford. Family and friends may call on Thursday, May 30, 2013, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM in the Wakelee Memorial Funeral Home, 167 Wakelee Ave., Ansonia. Online condolences may be made at www.wakeleememorial.com.