Miguel Velazquez Verdecias

Miguel Velazquez Verdecias, of Coon Rapids, Minnesota, passed away Wednesday, June 12th at his home after a 3 ½ year battle with multiple myeloma. Miguel "Coco" was born June 14th, 1957 in Las Tunas, Cuba, where he lived with his parents, Miguel & Eloisa; sister, Trifina; and two brothers, Uven & Antonio. He traveled to the other side of the country to attend military school and chose to learn the brick laying trade. He arrived in America in his early twenties and spent time in Chicago, California and Wisconsin before settling in Minnesota, where in his forties, met the love of his life and started a family which he never thought he’d be able to do. He worked for Klatke Construction, Hanson/Spancrete (where he met Barbara), Napa Auto and Modern Tool until he was hired at Peace Lutheran Church, which ended up being the ultimate blessing in his life! He upheld the household for many years as a domestic partner, which included caring for Kasandra as a baby, and he continued taking care of the home throughout his illness (and the girls in it)! He loved to garden, cook and make homemade wine. But mostly, he loved being “Papa” – a title he never thought he’d carry, but ended up adoring it and the grandkids it produced. Miguel is preceded in death by parents, Miguel & Elisa; grandparents; aunts and uncles. He is survived by his wife, Barbara; her children, Amanda (Adam) and Jesse (Lena); their children, Joseph (Megan) and Kasandra; grandchildren, Rosalie, Antony, Whitney, Madison, Raelyn; and our two newest members, Mylah and Savannah. Two dogs, Romeo "Licky" and Diego "Fat Boy"; and all you "Chucka-Ma-Luckas"; also survived by much loved in-laws; cousins; nieces and nephews. Service will be held on Tuesday, June 18, 2019 at 11:00 am with visitation one hour prior to the service at Peace Lutheran Church, 20 Northdale Blvd NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55448. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to help cover final expenses. Rest In Peace, My Love. Your infectious smile and intoxicating personality will be forever missed.