Carlos H. Velez, 68, of Lancaster, passed away on Friday, April 24, 2009, with his family by his side. He was born May 13, 1941 in Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico. He was the son of the late Ramona Velez. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Maria Velez.

He was a member of San Juan Bautista Church and the Spanish American Civic Association. He retired from Colonial Metals, where he was employed for 30 years. He enjoyed traveling, watching and playing baseball; a good game of dominoes, and walking his dog Pudgie.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by son, Carlos H. Velez Jr., Lancaster; 2 daughters: Nancy Soto, Lancaster, Lizette Velez, companion of Eddie Collazo, Lancaster; 6 grandchildren; 1 great grandchild; 3 sisters: Zoraida Flores, Lancaster, Carmen, wife of Alvaro Lopez , California, and Maria Acosta, New York; 4 brothers: Edgar, husband of Mary Carmen Acosta, Lancaster, Andres, husband of Norma Ortiz, Lancaster, Juan, husband of Maria Castro, Florida and Rafael Acosta who preceded him in death. Carlos will also be missed by a host of nieces, nephews, and godchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at San Juan Bautista Catholic Church, 425 South Duke Street, Lancaster on Monday, April 27, 2009, at 11:00AM with Rev. Allan F. Wolfe as celebrant. Interment will follow the service at Mellinger's Mennonite Cemetery. Viewings will take place on Sunday evening, April 26, 2009, at the Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home Inc. 414 East King Street, Lancaster from 7-9 PM with a Christian Prayer Service at 8:45 PM and also from 10-11AM on Monday at the church. Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 314 Good Drive, Lancaster, PA 17603. Arrangements by Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home Inc. To send an online condolence please visit: snyderfuneralhome.com