Joao J. Gaiolas Rodrigues

João J Gaiolas Rodrigues, 75 years old passed away at Trinitas Regional Medical Center/ RWJ Barnabas
on December 25, 2023.
João immigrated from Fundão, Portugal to Ironbound- Newark in 1974 to live the American Dream,
whom married to his dedicated wife Maria Trindade Rodrigues for 47 years. Started a life with loving
wife In Ironbound- Newark for 30 years with their only child. Joao worked at Reichhold Chemicals as a
Team Leader Operator and retired after 37 years. He worked 2 jobs as a Security at Newark Airport so
that he could have his wife at home raising their only daughter. They moved together to Elizabeth for his last
20 years with his daughter Daria F. Rodrigues being the first American born generation, whom is married
to Sebastiao Rodrigues and their wonderful son Jason Gaiolas Rodrigues.
He was always working but found strength to bond with us. Especially taking family road trips up &
down the American east coast/Canada and adventurous trips around Portugal/Spain.
He showed his affection through his protective, curiosity side in taking random drives together and
discussions about learning together what is America, in addition instilling our Portuguese traditions. He
embedded his strong value of unity with people who care, high work ethic and resilience. He provided
his learned lessons, motivation to keep achieving. He was a proud grandpa and made sure to be part of
Jason’s life and achievements.
He definitely left a legacy of never giving up, always pursue happiness, strength and appreciation and
show value to people. He was always willing and offered to help may it be translating or driving friends
to a location or providing, sharing informational knowledge to better ones life. He kept up with all news
and updated himself on better living conditions. He had pride in sharing information and discoveries
with the family and we appreciated him for that. He was a proud, protective, nurturing, strong husband,
daddy and father-in law and grandpa aka Vovo and he will be missed on earth. May his spirit live in our
hearts.
Funeral Service viewing will be private and care of Galante Funeral Home.
Please meet us at Our Lady of Fatima Newark for Funeral Mass on Saturday January 6 at 9:30am. Entombment will follow
at Woodbridge Memorial Garden Mausoleum, 1098 Woodbridge Ctr. Woodbridge Twp., NJ 07095 at
about 11:30am.