Obituary for Jose Rodriguez
Jose 'Cheo' Rodriguez entered into his eternal rest on August 6, 2021. He is survived by his devoted wife Aida, his brothers Nazario, Nestor and sister Lydia; his two loving daughters: Aidie (and her husband Albert), Rose (and her husband Chris), his two grandchildren Christian (and his wife Kendall), Victoria and his great-granddaughter Emerson Hope. To countless people, he was known more simply as Tio, Joe, Dad, Buelo, Pops or Bugaloo. He had a wealth of friends. He also poured into and cared for many 'kids' who looked to him for counsel, for support, and the fellowship of an abundant table and a warm and welcoming home. Many of these 'kids' are now grown, with healthy families of their own, and model the generous spirit that Joe brought with him wherever he went. Joe was always a friend to the lonely and a great listener. He took great effort to visit and show love to his family and introduce himself to any stranger he met on the road of life. If there was something to celebrate, Joe would be happy to offer his home. He and his wife Aida hosted legendary parties that brought together family and new friends alike. During these many events, he shared his superpower of being a people connecter, building strong friendships and even stronger families.
Part of Cheo's charm was that he was a cut-up, a class clown, a jokester. He taught us all not to take life, or ourselves so seriously. From his often bad, yet unforgettable dad jokes, to his flamboyant approach to dancing ghangam-style, Joe loved to laugh and to share laughter with others. He modeled the rare ability to laugh at himself, which freed those around him to be at ease. As a second-generation entrepreneur, Joe knew how to work hard, grow business and invest for the future. He took over his father's grocery store at a young age and built multiple family-operated businesses that served his local Dover, New Jersey community. From selling sandwiches to check cashing to providing affordable housing for local laborers, Joe and his family worked day and night to serve and provide affordable goods and services. As he would always say "Eat and Let Eat"
Joe showed no favoritism to rich and poor alike. He was as comfortable with business leaders as those homeless on the street. He knew how to treat each with dignity and respect. He was a celebrated member of the Aguada club. On cold winter nights, he wouldn't hesitate to offer a warm basement and hot meal to the homeless. Even in the final years of his life, Joe made time to deliver meals-on-wheels to the 'old people'. Joe always went the extra mile not just to bring a meal, but a smile and a story, sharing his gift of connection. Joe's generosity, love of life's simple pleasures and his infectious laughter have provided a worthy example for us to follow. His life-giving legacy centers on the strength and priority of family. To Joe, family always included everyone at the dinner table. We will all miss you 'Smiling Joe'
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Part of Cheo's charm was that he was a cut-up, a class clown, a jokester. He taught us all not to take life, or ourselves so seriously. From his often bad, yet unforgettable dad jokes, to his flamboyant approach to dancing ghangam-style, Joe loved to laugh and to share laughter with others. He modeled the rare ability to laugh at himself, which freed those around him to be at ease. As a second-generation entrepreneur, Joe knew how to work hard, grow business and invest for the future. He took over his father's grocery store at a young age and built multiple family-operated businesses that served his local Dover, New Jersey community. From selling sandwiches to check cashing to providing affordable housing for local laborers, Joe and his family worked day and night to serve and provide affordable goods and services. As he would always say "Eat and Let Eat"
Joe showed no favoritism to rich and poor alike. He was as comfortable with business leaders as those homeless on the street. He knew how to treat each with dignity and respect. He was a celebrated member of the Aguada club. On cold winter nights, he wouldn't hesitate to offer a warm basement and hot meal to the homeless. Even in the final years of his life, Joe made time to deliver meals-on-wheels to the 'old people'. Joe always went the extra mile not just to bring a meal, but a smile and a story, sharing his gift of connection. Joe's generosity, love of life's simple pleasures and his infectious laughter have provided a worthy example for us to follow. His life-giving legacy centers on the strength and priority of family. To Joe, family always included everyone at the dinner table. We will all miss you 'Smiling Joe'
Previous Events
Visitation
Friday
13
Aug
11:00 AM
- 12:00 PM
Seaglass Church
202 Flamingo Drive
Apollo Beach, FL 33572
Service
Friday
13
Aug
12:00 PM
Seaglass Church
202 Flamingo Drive
Apollo Beach, FL 33572
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