Manuel (Manny) Frank Velasco Jr.

MILFORD _ Manuel (Manny) Frank Velasco Jr., 89, longtime resident of Milford, passed away peacefully, Dec. 25, 2007, at the Countryside Care Center in Delhi.
He was born June 28, 1918, the son of Manuel F. Velasco Sr. and Maria Josephine Fernandez, in Brooklyn. Manny proudly served his country from 1940 until 1947, earning many medals of commendation, including the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart for his allegiance and bravery. Manny remained in life- long service to his country through the Milford American Legion, where he served as commander and became a lifetime member.
Manny worked for the State University College at Oneonta as a custodian from 1966 until his retirement in 1983.
Manny married his sweetheart, Gertrude (Trudy) Pelton, on Aug. 24, 1946, in Westville. Together they raised six children.
Manny is survived by his devoted daughter, Donna, her husband, Robert Anderson, and their children, Brad and Amy Anderson and daughter, Natalie, Robert Anderson and Karena White and son, Aiden. His granddaughter, Jennifer, her husband, Andrew, and their children, Logan, Caitlin, Jordan and Peyton Griffiths. His loving 'daughter' Carla, husband Harold, their children, Jessica Couse, Samantha Couse and daughter Kadance LeBeau. His beloved sister, Emily Couse, and family. His five sons, Edward, Butch, Keith, Kevin, John, their spouses and families. As well as many friends.
Manny was predeceased by his wife, Trudy; one grandchild, Manuel F. Velasco IV; and nine siblings.
Manny will be remembered fondly for his sense of humor, his commitment to family, and his love of bingo.
The family will be present from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 29, 2007, at the Bookhout Funeral Home, 357 Main St., Oneonta, to receive friends.
A service will be held at 1 p.m. with the Rev. Steve Fournier officiating. A gathering to honor and remember Manny's life will be held after the ceremony at the Milford American Legion for friends and family.
Burial will be held in the spring in the Milford Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Catskill Area Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., 1 Birchwood Drive, Oneonta, NY 13820.
Funeral arrangements are by the Bookhout Funeral Home of Oneonta.