Joseph August Rodrigues, 73, unseasonably passed away on August 11, 2022, following a challenging battle against pancreatic cancer. He was at home, surrounded by his loved ones.
Joseph was born, raised, and cultured as a long term resident of Lowell, Massachusetts by his benevolent departed parents, Edith (Mikalopas) Rodrigues and August (Gus) Rodrigues.
He received his bachelor’s degree in Welding Technologies at Saint Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia. He dedicated over forty laborious years to B&M and Amtrak Railroads and retired from Mass Bay Commuter Rail . Who were unquestionably privileged to have his exceptional work ethic, productivity, leadership, and complete devotion as a Foreman.
Joe was an extremely generous man who donated to countless charities, including the Wounded Veterans and The Megan House Foundation in Lowell. He enjoyed fishing, yardwork, home projects, reading and loved retirement at his lake house in Pelham, New Hampshire where he was delighted to witness all the pleasures that lake life offered.
Joe, (Daduk), dedicated his life ensuring each and every member of his family had the knowledge, resources, and provisions needed. He fundamentally guided all of us to an improved life so we could have the ability and opportunities to successfully reach our highest potential. He was, and I am certain always will be, directly involved and responsible for the welfare, safety, happiness, and success of his family, friends, neighbors, and community.
His extraordinary generosity will forever remain unmatched. However, his love, devotion, principles and occasional unique sense of humor will continue on through each and everyone of us until we meet again. We love and miss you. We truly have lost one of a kind.
Joe leaves behind his cherished wife of 42 years, Lorraine (Lavigne) Rodrigues, his two daughters, Debra (Devincentis) Rufiange and Kimberly (DeVincentis) Laorenzo, his son in laws Joseph Rufiange and Mike Laorenza. His four honored grandchildren, Krystina Gignac, Robert Gignac and his wife Alyssa Gignac, Dylan Harriman, and Mitchell Rufiange. Along with his three great grandchildren, Ashton Cruz, Kennedy Gignac and Grant Gignac. His cousins The Mikalopas Family, his fishing buddy Warren, and his most cherished and devoted companion of all, Lucy. Each and everyone of us are Blessed to have known such a wonderful man.
On Tuesday, August 16, 2022 all are welcome to attend his calling hours from 4-7 p.m. at McDonough Funeral Home, 14 Highland Street, Lowell, MA 978-458-6816.
His funeral will begin on Wednesday at 9 a.m. at the funeral home followed by his funeral mass at 10 a.m. at St. Margaret of Scotland Parish, 374 Stevens Street, Lowell.
Burial will follow at St. Patrick Cemetery.