Kenneth "Kenny" Velez

Kenneth “Kenny” Velez, age 51, of Eaton, OH passed away on Friday, March 21, 2025. Kenneth was born on March 21, 1974 in New York, NY to Nancy Mundo and the late Juan Antonio Velez, Sr. He is preceded in death by his father Juan Antonio Velez, Sr; brother Juan Antonio Velez, Jr; mother-in-law Joyce Hardin; and beloved dog Phoenix. He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Rebecca Hardin Velez; sons Brandon Velez, Kenny Velez, Jr. and Tyler (Pritha) Hardin; mothers Nancy Mundo and Miran Velez; brothers and sisters Christopher Velez, Lucas Velez, Christina Londono, Evita Velez, Tricia Martinez and Aileen Rivera; father-in-law Meryl Hardin; sisters-in-law Penny (Bernard) Marshall, Diane McDermit; special friend Brenda Smith and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. 

A devoted and loving husband, father, brother, uncle, friend, and dog dad, Kenny will be remembered for his vibrant personality, his quick wit, and the deep love he had for his family and friends. He had an incredible and unique gift for bringing people together, whether through laughter, conversation, or his unforgettable presence at family gatherings. 

Kenny truly cherished life, and it showed. He had a special passion for relaxing in his famous hot tub, sitting by the fire pit, and growing the first mango tree in Ohio. He was a dedicated gym-goer and he had an adventurous spirit when it came to travel. As a proud Navy veteran, the ocean always had a special place in his heart. This love translated to a love for cruises, which he often spoke about with such joy and enthusiasm. He also had a passion for karaoke. Some of his favorite memories were made singing and laughing with friends and family. 

His life changed in 1996 when he met his wife, Becky, through her best friend Brenda Smith, a forever matchmaker. One dance was all it took, and the rest is history. Kenny’s absence leaves a hole in the hearts of his loved ones that cannot be filled, but his spirit will live on in the stories, laughter, and love he shared with us all. 

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 26, 2025 from 4:00 pm until time of funeral service at 6:00 pm at the Gard Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 226 West Main Street, Eaton, OH 45320. Memorial contributions may be sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Online condolences and other remembrances may be sent to the family by visiting www.gardfuneralhome.com.