Jose Alberto Ocasio, 79, Passionate Boxing Enthusiast

Born on July 10, 1945, in Morovis, Puerto Rico, Jose moved to Lorain in March 1966. He began working in a local greenhouse before joining the Lorain Ford Assembly Plant, in September 1968. Over the course of 35 years, he was a dedicated and hardworking employee, never missing a single day due to illness. Affectionately known as "Joe", among his colleagues, he was recognized for his role working the skid bolt job and was a proud member of UAW Local 425.

A man of deep faith, Jose was a founding member of House of Praise International in Lorain, where he served his church community with unwavering commitment. He was a prayer warrior who continued to pray daily throughout his time here. Jose was incredibly charitable and never a reluctant giver. He was also a passionate boxing enthusiast and an avid supporter of the Cleveland Indians, cherishing time spent watching games with his sons, daughters and grandchildren. Above all, Jose found joy in the presence of his family and friends.

Jose is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Wilma Stella Ocasio (née Santos); his children, Joseph P. Ocasio of Avon Lake, Daniel A. Ocasio (Emily), Deborah Bonilla (Rafael) and David E.(Melissa), of Lorain, and Rebecka Perez (Max) of Delmar, NY; his brothers, Cheo Ocasio of Anderson, SC, and Ramon Ocasio (Minerva) of Lorain; his sisters, Paublita Otero, Luz Vega (Geno), Dolores Serpa (Luis), and Milagro Gonzalez; 12 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Pablo and Rosario Ocasio (née Silva), his brother Felix Ocasio (Fela), his sisters Rosario Luciano (Ramon), Elsa Marquez (Iglain) and Carmen Garcia, and his granddaughter Ava Mishael Bonilla.

Jose’s legacy of faith, dedication, and love for his family will be cherished by all who knew him.

Visitation will be Thursday from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m. in the House of Praise International Church - 4321 Elyria Avenue, Lorain. Additional visitation will take place in the church on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of funeral services at 11:00 a.m. Reverend Max Perez will officiate. Burial will follow in Ridge Hill Memorial Park, Amherst Township.

Contributions in Mr. Ocasio's memory are encouraged to the House of Praise International Church - 4321 Elyria Avenue, Lorain, OH 44055.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Gluvna-Shimo-Hromada Funeral Chapel. To share your memories and condolences with the Ocasio Family, please visit Jose’s tribute page at www.gluvnashimohromada.com.