S2 Ep1: In Loving Memory of The Great Jaime “Jim” Velasquez - #12

We return for the Season 2 premiere in high honor of the beloved, Jim Velasquez, the father of our host James Velasquez. Jim's 1st son pays tribute by discussing his entire life of love, family, friends, 22-year service in the US Navy, sacrifices, and stories of how his father bounced back.

Jaime “Jim” Lavado Velasquez, aged 63, a Woodbridge, VA resident, passed away due to COVID-19 complications on March 2, 2021 at Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center. He was together with his family in his final moments.

Jim was born on July 27, 1957 in Angeles City in the province of Pampanga in the Philippines. He was born to parents Angela Velasquez (mother) and Cosme Velasquez (father). Jim has 10 siblings with the same parents. He attended RCC high school and FEU college. In 1983, Jim enlisted in the US Navy, which brought him to the United States. Jim was active military for 22 years and achieved his highest ranking as Chief Petty Officer, E7. During his 22-year service with the US Navy, Jim was deployed numerous times to Afghanistan, Japan, Camp Lejeune, San Diego, and South Korea. Most notably, he was deployed to the USNS Comfort for Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003. Jim's honors include Navy Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Received Global Warfare on Terrorism Expeditionary and Service Medals. He earned his MA in Public Administration from Webster University in May 2004 and MA in International Relations at the University of Oklahoma in July 2013. Jim honorably retired from the US Navy in 2005 to continue growing a life with his family.

Jim married his wife, Luz Velasquez in 1988, and raised two sons: James Velasquez (born in 1991) and Jeff Velasquez (born in 1993). He is survived by Luz, James, Jeff, and his future daughter-in-law Rose Mary Garcia. He is also survived by his siblings Amor Velasquez, Frank Velasquez, Ricardo Velasquez, Nestor Velasquez, Robert Velasquez, Jun Velasquez, Bernie Velasquez, Khid Velasquez, and Lhing Velasquez.

In honor of Jim's 22-year service with the US Navy, Jim's final place of rest will be at Arlington National Cemetery.

The legacy of Jim Velasquez will continue to live forever. He will always be with his friends and family.