MIAMI – Caesar Anthony Velez, (85) passed away on Tuesday, November 21, 2023. He was born in Puerto Rico and raised in New York City.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Toni and wife of 48 years, Arlene. He is survived by his four children, Daniel, Maxwell, Lindsay (Victor & Daughters Avi, Didi, Ariel & Heaven) & Nina (David Goodlund) and grandson Levi.

Caesar lived a life filled with great gusto. He studied at the Art Students League in Manhattan where he was mentored and be-friended by fashion illustrator, Joe Eula which launched him into his career in the arts in NYC. In the early years, he often did freelance creative work with fine artist Tony Ballatore and photographers, Richard Avedon and Sante Forlano. He was involved in many creative ventures involving photography, commercial interior design and fashion retail display throughout his career. Some highlights in his career include: Many shoots for Vogue and Glamour Magazines, visual displays for Macy’s, Tiffany & Co., Henry Bendel, Male Sportwear and as a technical draftsman for the original redesign of the LL Bean Store in Freeport, ME and many private boutiques around the Boston area. He served in the US Army and was proud to be a veteran of the Vietnam War.

He raised his family in Atlanta, GA and Westborough, MA and relocated in retirement to Miami, FL with his wife Arlene in 2001. There he continued to be involved in the art, theater and music community. Caesar will be remembered for his interesting stories, sense of humor, love for fine clothing and craftsmanship and his generosity to the people he loved. He would always have an easel set up ready to paint and his saxophone ready to pick up for whenever he felt the itch. You would never leave a visit with him without something - whether it be a piece of knowledge, a new joke or a sweater from his own collection.

The family extends their love and appreciation to the caregivers and doctors at Miami Jewish Health, the community where he lived the last five years.

A private celebration of life will be held this summer.

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