Simply CremationMayor Paul Joseph Vesco
Our hero, Paul Joseph Vesco, died October 11, 2017 at the age of 90 after a truly wonderful life. A lifelong Northern Nevadan, Paul was born to immigrant parents, Jo and Lillian Vesco. He enlisted in the Navy at 16 during WWII, and found himself on the cleanup crew after the atomic bomb in Nagasaki bay.
When he returned from the war, he met and married Rene Marie O ‘Doan in Carlin, Nevada. They knew each other only four months when they married. Paul and Rene settled in Winnemucca and started a family. They built, by hand, the iconic Kreme Cone out of railroad ties and used lumber. After 35 years of owning restaurants, they sold them and Paul ran for mayor. Little did anyone know he would be the mayor of Winnemucca for almost two decades and have the city park named after him when he finally retired at age 78. He also was a volunteer fireman for 36 years.
At age 45, Paul was diagnosed with a rare sinus cancer possibly caused by the radiation exposure during the war. Over the next 40 years, he received over 30 operations and treatments. Amazingly, he took his medical condition in stride often going directly to his beloved garage right as he returned from a surgery.
He is survived by his bride of 65 years, Rene; his brother, Jack; his children Monica, Teresa, and Chris; and their loving families. His siblings Robert, Arlene, and his children Jeanne and Paul Jr. are deceased.
Funeral will be held in Winnemucca, Nevada. Date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, please do something kind for a senior.
Dear Rene, Monica, Teresa, and Chris,
We were so sorry to hear of Paul’s passing. He was a good friend to our family, and we enjoyed the time we spent with him and your family through the years. We appreciate the great service he provided to our community here in Winnemucca. It has been a long time since we have seen any of you, but always thought fondly of your family. We can’t imagine how he must have suffered through the years, but we know he is at peace now.
Please accept our love and sympathy, as you go through this difficult time.
Ken and Carmen Lords and family
Paul was so good to my husband and I when we built the Subway in Winnemucca. Bill was proud to call Paul a friend. I appreciate Paul and Rene’s support when Bill passed away. I hope you will be able to have peace at this difficult time. Love, Beth Anne Watterson
October 22, 2017
Dear Vesco Family,
I’m writing to the Vesco family on the behalf of my mother, Ann Higden. My mother and father (Ann and John Higden from Reno/Sparks area) were friends with Paul, Rene, Jack and Gale Vesco. They were golfing buddies and enjoyed many grand adventures together. My parent’s spoke of the Vesco family often and held them in the highest regard. My mom asked us to let the family know she sends her love and they will be in her thoughts and prayers. She misses all the fun they had together. We know what a difficult time this is for everyone. Our dad, John Higden, suddenly and tragically passed away on September 1, 2017. May you find peace in your hearts in the days ahead.
Dear Rene,
Dave and I have so many great memories of you and Paul as our neighbors in Winnemucca. We pray for peace and comfort for you and your family during this difficult time.
With love,
Dave and Karen Schone
Dear Rene and family, We were so very sorry to hear of Paul’s passing. He certainly fought the good fight for a long time and with such dignity. We know what a loss he is to your family. Please know you’re in our thoughts. Our deepest sympathy. Ron and Chris and family.
Rene and Family,
Paul will be missed, his memory will be forever in our hearts.
Our prayers are for each of you to heal and have great memories.
Rene and family,
Paul will be missed, his memory will be forever in our hearts.
Our prayers are for each of you to heal and remember your good memories.
Thank you so much,
Rene
Bill was one of our favorite people. Thank you so much.
Rene
I’m sorry to hear about John. Thank you for your kind words.
Rene
Enjoyed being your neighbors all those years. Thank you for your kind words.
Rene
Thank you for your kind words.
Rene
We have many fond memories of Vince too. Thank you for your kind words.
Rene
Dear Rene, Monica, Teresa & Chris,
So sorry to hear about Paul (a.k.a Mr. Mayor). He truly was an amazing man. I remember that someone had stole my keys to my pickup at the high school and my mom, Louise, called Paul. Imagine the Mayor of Winnemucca trying to break into my pickup. LOL! Your family has always been so good to me and my family. I am so thankful for knowing you. I will treasure those memories always!! My prayers will be with you.
Love,
Denise Cady-Smith (a.k.a Baby)