Mateo Cirilo Velasquez

Mateo was born on January 19th, 1959 in Kansas City, MO to Benny and Delphina Velasquez, sibling to Marty (Kent) Flanders, Ed (Jeannie) Velasquez, and Chris (Amy) Velasquez. Growning up Mateo enjoyed playing baseball, being outdoors and working out. He attended Winnetonka High School and graduated in 1977. Mateo honorably served in the United States Marine Corps from 1981 to 1984.

Mateo’s professional career was marked by a diverse range of experiences. He worked for American Hospital Supply, Harrah’s Casino, and BNSF Railway where he retired in 2019.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mateo was a devoted family man. He was a loving companion to his longtime partner, Mina Sanchez, a dedicated father to his five children: James (Aeriel) Brown, Mateo (Jacqueline) Velasquez, Monica (Christian) McDermott, Emily (Josh) Velasquez, and Seth (Jamie) Velasquez. In addition to his children, he is survived by Mina’s children: David Russell, Andrew (Niki) Russell and Selina (Codee) Detrick. Mateo was a treasured grandfather to his twelve grandchildren: Autumn, Trace, Cruz, Lyrik, Josephine, Malyki, Vega, Cirilo, Kaylynn, Lucian, Kious and Vivian. He consistently emphasized the importance of always keeping family first, working hard and taking everything one day at a time.

Mateo was known for his charismatic personality and passion for his hobbies. He was an avid firearm enthusiast, who loved animals, especially his beloved pets (Max, Jake, Stark, TJ, Maya, Ice, Wind, Cloud, and Jet). He also had a deep passion for sports, particularly the Kansas City Chiefs and baseball. His enthusiasm for baseball even led him to coach his sons’ baseball teams throughout their youth, where they bonded over a shared love of the game.

Mateo deeply cherished spending time with his children and grandchildren. He regularly attended their sporting events and was actively involved in their lives, showing his unwavering support and encouragement.

Mateo’s departure leaves a void in the lives of his family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Benny and Delphina Velasquez. He is survived by his longtime partner, five children, twelve grandchildren, and a host of relatives and friends.

A Celebration of Life Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 5 from 5 to 8 pm at McGilley Antioch Chapel, 3325 NE Vivion Rd., Kansas City, MO 64119.

To honor Mateo’s memory, the family encourages memorial donations to Wayside Waifs, an organization dedicated to animal welfare. Donations can be sent to 3901 Martha Truman Rd., Kansas City, MO 64137.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Kansas City Veterans Affairs for their exceptional care and support during Mateo’s time of need. Mateo will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who love him.