Joseph Charles Velky, Sr, 72, of Monroe died July 20 at St Vincent Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Bridgeport, November 9, 1941.

Mr Velky graduated from Bullard Haven Technical School in 1959. One month later, he enlisted into the United States Navy, stationed on the USS Harwood (DD-861), serving for four years, extending his time to include the Cuban Missile Crisis.

His wife of nearly 53 years, Judith; siblings and spouses Linda and Chuck Kilson of Sandy Hook, Betty Kaladish of Huntington, Carol and Larry Bourque of Huntington, Paul and Alice Velky of Woodbury, and Chief Richard Velky of the Schaghticoke Tribal Nation and Kathy of Woodbury; three sons and spouses Joseph C. Velky, Jr, and Michele of Southbury, John and Kimberley Velky of Granville, Mass., and James and Randi Velky of Southbury; nine grandchildren; five nieces and nephews; 22 great-nieces and nephews; one great-great niece; an uncle and several aunts; and many cousins survive Mr Velky. His parents Catherine (Harris) and Paul Francis Velky, sister Pauline "Paulette" Crone-Morange, and two nephews predeceased him.

He worked for Sikorsky Aircraft in Stratford. Years later, he was hired by United Parcel Service. He retired after being employed for 28 years as a supervisor in the UPS Tractor Trailer Division.

Along with his father, he coached the Black Rock Little League team. He played on several Bridgeport Softball teams and actively played in ping-pong and shuffleboard tournaments.

Mr Velky was an active member for many years with the Schaghticoke Tribal Nation, and served on its Council in the 1960s. After retirement, Joe and Judy went on many vacations and cruises.

His interests included woodworking and many different sports. He was a leader in planning family picnics and gatherings. He was greatly loved and will be missed by all who knew him.

Calling hours at Spadaccino & Leo P. Gallagher & Son Community Funeral Home, 315 Monroe Turnpike, are from 4 to 8 pm, Friday, July 25, and Saturday, July 26, from 9 to 11 am. A Native American ceremony officiated by Edward Sarabia, a spiritual guide from the Tlingit Tribe, Alaska, will take place at 9:30 am, Saturday, followed by a religious service officiated by Father Henry from St Jude’s Church of Monroe, at 10 am. His final resting place will be in a mausoleum at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Trumbull.

Memorial contributions may be sent to the Schaghticoke Tribal Nation Scholarship Fund, 101 Elizabeth Street, Derby CT 06418.

To leave online condolences visit www.spadaccinofuneralhome.com.