Andres Gonzalez Velazquez

September 20, 1930 – March 22, 2025

With heavy hearts and deep sadness, we share the passing of our beloved father, Andres Gonzalez Velazquez, who passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 22, 2025, in Merced, California, at the remarkable age of 95.

Born on September 20, 1930, in La Unión de San Antonio, Jalisco, Mexico, our father lived a long, meaningful life defined by strength, humility, and quiet wisdom. He was a noble, loyal, and independent man—a man of few words but immense heart.

On October 12, 1957, he married the love of his life, Lucero Alcala de Velazquez, and shortly after, with courage and hope, they began a new chapter in the United States. That journey was not easy, but my dad never shied away from hard work. He provided for his family with dignity and pride, working for 42 years as an expert in horticulture at Stribling’s Nurseries in Le Grand. He knew his craft like the back of his hand—hands that were weathered and strong, just like his spirit. In March of 2024, after 66 years of marriage, our mother went to be with the Lord—and though losing her was incredibly hard, we take comfort in knowing that they are now reunited.

To us, he was more than a provider. He was our rock. A true caballero—a gentleman in every sense. He loved horses, loved the land, and above all, he loved his family with quiet intensity. He paid close attention to all of us, never needing to say much to make us feel safe, seen, and loved.

Faith was central to his life. Every Sunday, he was at church, giving thanks and carrying himself with a reverence that spoke volumes. His belief in something greater helped guide the values he instilled in us—respect, hard work, courage, and loyalty.

He also knew how to enjoy life. He appreciated a good bottle of tequila, a red beer served room temperature, and insisted on dessert right after dinner. These little rituals made us smile—and now they will live on as sweet memories that bring us comfort.

My father was deeply respected by all who knew him. He walked through this life with grace, quiet strength, and the kind of presence that does not need to announce itself. His mission here on Earth was fulfilled, and he left behind a family who will carry him with us in everything we do.

We want to express our deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to the incredible team at Franciscan Post Acute Care Center in Merced, CA, especially the CNAs and LVNs, for the tender and respectful care they gave our father during his time there. Your compassion did not go unnoticed. We are also deeply thankful to Hinds Hospice for providing such comfort, dignity, and grace in his final days. Your presence was a blessing to us and our father.

Andres leaves behind his daughters Genevieve Garcia and Mary L. Rhodes, son in laws Timothy P. Garcia and Michael Rhodes, granddaughters Marissa Garcia (Alex) and Jessica Hoffman (Daniel), Michael Brian Rhodes, Gregory Alan Rhodes, great grandchildren Maya Garcia, Warren Hoffman, Dominic and Derrick Rhodes, as well as numerous other relatives and friends.

A rosary followed immediately by mass will be held on Friday, April 25, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 562 West 13th Street, Merced, California. Our father’s ashes will be laid to rest alongside his beloved wife, Lucero’s ashes at Calvary Cemetery in Merced, CA, during a private memorial at a later date. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. May they rest in peace.

Fly High, Tío Andres