Tributes

Antonio Vicente Velasco Asprec passed away on February 15, 2020 surrounded by family and loved ones in his home in Fresno, CA. He was 81 years old. Antonio was born in San Julian, Agoo, La Union Philippines. The second child of five, he was the only son born to Pedro and Basilia Asprec. He attended San Julian Elementary School and South Provincial High School before graduating from the University of the Philippines College of Veterinary Medicine in 1959. After earning his degree, Antonio served as the provincial veterinarian of Palawan for 10 years. In 1969, Antonio emigrated from the Philippines to the United States, settling in Fresno, CA. Here, he continued his career in veterinary medicine, working for the United States Department of Agriculture as a meat inspector. His work took him all over the country, serving as a Supervisory Veterinary Medical Officer. He served in this role diligently and with much respect for 36 years, retiring in 2005. Beyond his work life, Antonio was very engaged member of the Fresno, Filipino, and Catholic Church communities. He once served as the President of the Filipino Catholic League, was a lifetime member of the Filipino American Association of Fresno and Vicinity, and was involved in the University of the Philippines Alumni Association of Central California (UPAACC). Further, he was an active member of the Knights of Columbus and sung beautifully in the Fruit of the Vine Choir for St. Mary’s church. Antonio was a loving husband to his wife of 48 years, Agnes. Together, they built a beautiful home and raised a family of five wonderful children. Antonio’s devotion to his family knew no limits and his calming charm, caring smile, and easy humor served as inspiration to them throughout their lives. Antonio was also a trusted and respected friend, colleague, and confidant for all who knew him well. He was easy to talk to and was always willing to share a wise word and offer comfort and assistance to those in need. An avid gardener and wonderful home cook, Antonio could often be found preparing a meal for family and guests alike. No one knew better that the kitchen could be the hub of a happy home than him, and it gave him great joy to share his love of food with family and friends, bringing everyone closer together in the process. Antonio is survived by his wife Agnes his five children Lemuel, Abigail, Grace, Audrey, and Joyce, his four siblings Teresita, Felicitas, Bernardita, and Julie, and his 12 grandchildren Christian, Isaiah, Dominic, Dylan, Rylee, Kyan, Ailey, Alivia, Kensie, Ashtyn, Marcus, and Maxwell. The family of Antonio Asprec wishes to extend their sincere thanks for to all those who have extended condolences and offered such moving tributes and shared such loving memories of Antonio. Visitation will be held at the Sisters of Disciples of the Divine Master on Sunday, February 23, 2020 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. A vigil service will follow at 6:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary Queen of the Apostles Catholic Church on Monday, February 24, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at St. Peter’s Cemetery.

Tributes

Dr. Antonio V. Asprec

April 5, 1938 - February 15, 2020