Robert Beto Velasquez

Robert Velasquez was a modest man, calm and observant in his ways. He was trustworthy and traditional in his approach to his life and in his relationships. He was tough-minded with the kind of “stick to it” attitude that earned the respect of all who knew him. He was also a man who was meticulous, carefully disciplined, and orderly in virtually everything he undertook. Realistic about life, he was always prepared to take on responsibility.

His parents were Fernando Velasquez and Ramona Navarro. At a very early age, Robert's father passed away and he was raised by his mother and grandmother, Altagracia Madrid, in Tijuana, B.C. until 18 years old. The Velasquez household also included his older sister Gloria and his two younger siblings Arturo and Julieta. He was brought up to be self-sufficient and dependable. These were traits that would serve him well throughout his life.

As a child, Robert developed a variety of interests, he was always curious about the world around him and was often eager to explore it. Robert took part in racket ball, basketball, and running. He was a member of the A.C.J.M. (Asociación Católica Juvenil Mexicana). Robert's memorable achievements included running in a relay marathon for A.C.J.M. He enjoyed playing and spending time with his friends.

When Robert was about 17 years old, his family moved from Tijuana, B.C. Mexico to Chula Vista, CA. Although he knew very little English at the time, Robert transitioned well and was a very good student at Chula Vista High School. He joined the Pep Club and graduated from Chula Vista High School in 1957, the first graduating class. Robert was a very logical person who enjoyed learning about factual information. Using his exceptional memory, he was able to learn much through observation. Robert always seemed to have a command of the facts and was able to make it seem as though he could easily master any problem that might be presented to him.

Always considered to be a solid friend, Robert was fortunate to have numerous acquaintances and several very close friends during his life. Some of his best childhood friends were Raymundo Morales, Jesus Contreras and Javier. It was not uncommon for Robert to go beyond the call of duty for others, and family frequently sought him out for advice because he had a knack for coming up with practical solutions to any type of dilemma.

Once Robert graduated from high school, he joined the U.S. Air force. He was stationed at McClellan Air Force Base in California from August 1, 1957 - July 31, 1961. Through his hard work and dedication, he achieved the rank of Administrative Specialist. He received praise for his valor, including being awarded the Good Conduct Medal. A literal thinker who possessed a calm exterior, Robert enjoyed and was proud to serve in the military and his country.

On June 13, 1964 Robert exchanged wedding vows with Elsa T. Guerra at the Iglesia Del Carmen of Tijuana, B.C. Compassionate and devoted to Elsa, Robert held endearing, traditional values about marriage and family life. He took the responsibility of marriage to heart, giving it his total commitment. He was a source of strength to Elsa and using his gifts at nurturing one-on-one relationships, he worked hard to make his new family happy.

Robert brought the same traditional values in his marriage to bear on how he raised his children. He was a good parent to them, always firm yet fair in his dealings. He would always listen carefully and think things through before he acted, even when it was an adverse situation. Robert was also a walking schedule, always seeming to know what everyone in the family needed to do, where they needed to be and when they needed to be there. Robert was blessed with five children, Elsa Del Carmen, Roberto Eugenio, Laura Maria, Raul Agustin, and Fernando. They were also blessed with eight grandchildren, Robert William, Jorge Alejandro, Enrique Andres, Marissa Ann, Benjamin Abraham, Elizabeth Tamara, Iliana, and Fernando Jr.

Robert greatly enjoyed what he did for a living. He went to Southwestern College to take additional courses that further advanced his career in accounting. His dedication and perseverance did not go unnoticed throughout the years. In the prime of his career, he was elevated to the position of Section Chief in the Department of Revenue and Recovery for the County of San Diego. He was employed by the County of San Diego for 31 years.

When Robert’s retirement finally arrived in 1994, he was well prepared. He was celebrated at the Marriott in San Diego by family, friends and co-workers for his years of service. He remained active in his community and felt fulfilled. Robert found pleasure in the simple things of life. He enjoyed watching the San Diego Padres and Chargers on television and occasionally at the ballpark enjoying a hot dog and nachos. He enjoyed going on regular outings with his beloved wife, Elsa and eating out at local restaurants. He enjoyed visiting with his family and making carne asada dinners in his backyard. He enjoyed celebrating his wedding anniversaries and his children and grandchildren birthdays, and always looked forward to family gatherings and holidays. Robert also enjoyed taking vacations in Mexico with his wife Elsa.

Robert Velasquez passed away on March 20, 2012 at Kaiser Permanente Hospital, San Diego. Suffered a major heart attack. He regained consciousness to say good bye to family and then passed away peacefully on the 8th day. He is survived by wife Elsa, daughters Elsa, and Laura. Sons, Roberto, Raul, and Fernando. His grandchildren, Robert, Jorge, Enrique, Marissa, Benjamin, Elizabeth, Iliana and Fernando Jr. His sisters Gloria and Julieta and brother Arturo. Services were held at Mater Dei Catholic Church. Robert was laid to rest in Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego, California.

Commitment is a key word that can be used to describe the life of Robert Velasquez. He was committed to living the life of a good man who was both practical and trustworthy. He was committed to the traditional values that he upheld his entire life. He committed himself to being a hard worker who expected the same effort in return from those around him. Most of all, he was committed to those he knew and loved.