The Pelham Memorial High School community mourns the loss of Mr. Robert Velasco, former head custodian of PMHS, who passed away on September 6 at the age of 65. Mr. Velasco passed from complications following a struggle with lung cancer. Mr. Velasco diligently served the Pelham community, where he worked as head custodian of the high school as well as head night custodian. He was also at Prospect Elementary School for many years before that.

Mr. Velasco was born in Bolivia, but later immigrated to New Rochelle with his father after graduating from the Military Academy in Santa Cruz. He was a sports fanatic, always rooting for the New York Jets. However, one of his most admirable qualities was his dedication to his family.

English teacher Ms. Cordero, a long-time friend, said, “He became like a father figure to me. He would always check up on me and always ask about my family and how they were doing.”

Mr. Ken Sutton, the new head custodian, said of Mr. Velasco, “He was very dedicated to the district. The teachers and students loved him. He always went out of his way to help whoever needed it.” This commitment was seen every day in his efforts to keep PMHS a clean, safe place to learn.

Just last spring, Custodian’s Day was instituted to celebrate the contributions that Mr. Velasco and the rest of the custodial staff made to the school. This year, on September 5, opening day for teachers, he was recognized for his 25 years with the Pelham School District.

Our principal, Mrs. Clark said, “I miss him because he was a very kind man, and he always wanted to help. It’s a true loss for our school.”

He is survived by his children Robert & Karla, his partner Marina, and his eight grandchildren, Bobby, Matthew, Richie, Gabi, Anthony, Becky, CJ, and Sophia, and two great grandchildren, Max and Catalina. He will be missed by all that knew him.