Joao Manuel Mota

Joao Manuel Mota, most knew him as John, age 64, passed away on Tuesday, March 3rd, 2026 surrounded by so much love with his family by his side.

He was born on February 21st, 1962 in Ponte Delgada, Sao Miguel, Portugal. Came to the United States with his parents and siblings at the age of four and has ever since lived throughout New Jersey. He was a dedicated working man that always strived to provide for his family.

At 14 years old, he met Maribel at a Christmas Eve get together with friends and has ever since been the love of his life. He would always be sure to show up with a bouquet of flowers every Sunday morning after his Costco runs that he enjoyed so much. He was the epitome of a family man and all that mattered was making sure his family was taken care of. If you knew John, you know nothing made him happier than a day hunting in the woods, or a nice night out with good food and vino, or booking a trip for a beach vacation. He made it his priority to cook Sunday dinners for his entire family.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Maribel, his children Michael, Sean, and Alyssa alongside their spouses, Jessica, Tania, and Peter; his two grandchildren, Grayson and Cambrie. He is predeceased by his father, Manuel and his brothers Antonio and Evaristo. He is also survived by his mother, Maria; his brothers, Nelson, Valentino, Phillip; and his sisters, Maria Fatima, Almiranda, Natalia, Chandell, and Evette; as well as countless nieces and nephews.

He will be forever missed and his spirit will always live on through his family and friends who treasured his heart so much. He had an amazing heart.

To his friends and family and all who knew him, you are welcomed to join us in the celebration of his life alongside his family who he loved so much and will miss him dearly. We will be memorializing John’s life on Saturday March 7 from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Galante Funeral Home, 2800 Morris Ave, Union, NJ 07083.