Roberto Jr. Velasques

In Loving Memory of

Roberto “Jong” Velasquez Jr.

July 14, 1970 – August 26, 2026

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Roberto “Jong” Velasquez Jr., who peacefully passed away on August 26, 2026, at St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver, British Columbia, at the age of 56.

Fondly known to family and friends as Jong, he was born on July 14, 1970, and raised in Arayat, Pampanga, Philippines, to his loving parents, Roberto Velasquez Sr. and Marcelina Velasquez.

Jong’s life was a testament to perseverance, hard work, and determination. Life was not always easy, but he never allowed its difficulties to stop him from moving forward. He began his career in the Philippines as a computer technician before pursuing greater opportunities abroad. His journey eventually brought him to the Middle East and, later, to Canada, where he worked as a chef at Kit’s Restaurant in Whitehorse, Yukon.

Through years of sacrifice, dedication, and hard work, Jong was able to build the life he dreamed of for his family. One of his greatest accomplishments was being able to bring his beloved wife, Zalvi, and their children, Jewel and Janylle, to Yukon so they could build a life together. He worked tirelessly to provide for his family, eventually building their dream home back in the Philippines and securing a car for his family.

Jong was a jolly, helpful, selfless, and dependable person. He had a way of making people feel welcome, and his generosity extended far beyond his immediate family. Whether through something significant or simply in the smallest ways he could, he was always willing to lend a hand and help those around him. To his friends, relatives, and members of his community, Jong was someone they could count on.

He may not have considered himself a perfect father, husband, brother, cousin, or friend, but he loved his family in the way he knew best—with sacrifice, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to provide for them. His life was not defined by perfection, but by his willingness to keep going, to overcome challenges, and to make sure the people he loved were cared for.

Jong’s greatest strength was his determination. Every hardship he faced became fuel to work harder and reach his goals. He carried the weight of many responsibilities, yet continued to find reasons to smile, laugh, help others, and enjoy the moments life gave him.

His passing leaves an immeasurable emptiness in the hearts of those who loved him. He will be deeply missed by his wife, Zalvi Velasquez; his children, Jamaica, Jewel, and Janylle; his beloved son John Carlo, who passed before him; his siblings Marilyn, Alex, and Maricris; his late brother Michael; his parents, Marcelina and Roberto Velasquez Sr.; and his many relatives, friends, and loved ones whose lives he touched.

Though Jong is no longer physically with us, the love he gave, the sacrifices he made, the laughter he shared, and the memories he created will remain with us forever.

His Final Message

Jong often lived by a simple reminder:

“Life is short, enjoy it while you can.”

Perhaps these words best capture the spirit he carried throughout his life. Despite the struggles he encountered, Jong continued to work hard, enjoy the company of others, and find happiness in the simple moments. Now, it is those moments that his loved ones will hold closest to their hearts.

And if Jong could leave one final message to the people he loved, perhaps it would be this:

“To my family and everyone I have loved, please do not remember me only for the hardships I faced or the things I was unable to do. Remember me for the love I tried to give, the sacrifices I made, and every little way I tried to help. I know I was not perfect, but everything I did came from wanting to make life better for the people I cared about.

Take care of one another. Love your family. Help each other whenever you can. Do not wait for tomorrow to say ‘I love you,’ to forgive, to laugh together, or to enjoy the simple things in life. Life is short, so enjoy it while you can.

I may be leaving you now, but please know that a part of me will always remain in your hearts—in every memory, every laugh, every story, and every moment we shared. Do not be afraid to keep living and finding happiness. That is what I would want for all of you.

Thank you for loving me, for standing beside me, and for being part of my journey. I will carry your love with me, just as I hope you will carry mine with you.

Until we meet again. I love you all.”

Following the final viewing in Burnaby, Jong will be repatriated to the Philippines, where he will be laid to rest with his family. The date of his repatriation will be announced once finalized.

Rest peacefully, Jong.

You fought your battles.
You carried your responsibilities.
You gave what you could.
You loved in your own way.
And you never stopped moving forward.

Your journey here may have ended, but your love, your laughter, and the memories you left behind will live on forever.

Until we meet again.
You will always be loved. You will always be remembered.