Obituary of Joao Fernandes Rodrigues

Joao Fernandes Rodrigues, age 78, of Bridgeport, beloved husband of Ana Videira Rodrigues, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 14, 2022 in the comfort of his home surrounded by his loving family. Born on September 23, 1943 in Ardaos, Boticas, Vila Real, Portugal, he was a son of the late Jose Rodrigues and Adelaide Fernandes Rodrigues. A former member of the Portuguese Army, he immigrated to the United States in March of 1968 and settled in Bridgeport.

Joao was a member of the Laborers Union Local 146 for over 30 years and was formerly employed by Kowalski Bros. and Grasso Construction. He was a lifetime member of the Vasco da Gama Club and enjoyed many days there with his friends playing cards, shooting pool and sharing many good times. He loved the game of soccer. He was very involved in the Vasco team and fiercely cheered for his favorite team, S.L. Benfica. Joao was a true "Benfiquista", always loyal to his team. He also enjoyed dancing and playing the harmonica.

But above all of his enjoyments and roles in life, none was more important than that of husband, father and grandfather. He was a very hard-working man and always gave of his needs to make sure his family had the best. He treasured time spent with his family, especially his adored grandchildren; when they were together, his smile would light up the room. The unconditional love he gave and the values he taught will forever live in their hearts. John will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his beloved wife of 53 years, Ana, survivors include his loving children, Diana Rodrigues and her companion Paul Guimaraes of Milford and John Rodrigues and his wife Karen of Stratford, his cherished and adored grandchildren, Emma Reese, Carter Jamesen and Phoebe Belle; two brothers, Joaquim Rodrigues and Francisco Rodrigues, three sisters, Maria Dos Santos, Laurentina DaSilva and Candida Trapasso, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, brothers and sister-in-law and Godchildren. He was predeceased by two brothers, Antonio and Domingos Rodrigues.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, January 20, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. in Our Lady of Fatima Church, 429 Huntington Road, Bridgeport. Entombment will follow in Lawncroft Cemetery, Fairfield. Relatives and friends may greet the family at a walk-through visitation on Wednesday from 5 – 7 p.m. in the Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, 419 White Plains Rd., Trumbull. Masks and social distance are required as people walk through and exit without lingering. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Merton House, 43 Madison Ave., Bridgeport, CT 06604.