Newark Obituary: Joao DaSilva, Gardener of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, Union Member

Newark resident Joao DaSilva passed away on March 17.

The following obituary comes courtesy of the Galante Funeral Home:

“Joao DaSilva passed peacefully into the arms of our Lord on March 17, 2016.

“Born in Portugal he lived in Newark before moving to Union. Joao was employed by the Napp Grecco Company in Newark as a foreman for many years before retiring 17 years ago.

“He was a longtime member of the Holy Name Society of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church and a member of Heavy and General Laborers Union Local 472 in Newark.

“In his retirement he dedicated himself to doing all the gardening at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Newark. His talent and patience was clearly evident with the resulting beauty that all could enjoy because of his tireless efforts. It has been noted that he didn’t like to prune anything growing or blooming, he loved to see the plants flourish. The grounds that surround the church always appeared as a botanical paradise in a city of asphalt and concrete.

“Joao is the husband of Maria (nee Henriques). The father of Raymond DaSilva and his wife Debbie; Maria Alice Pinho and her husband David. The brother of Joao Agustinho DaSilva. He is the loving grandfather of Jennifer and her husband Joey Aguiar, David John, Daniel, Nicholas and Kevin.The great grandfather of Jacob.

“In lieu of flowers donations to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Newark to help continue his gardening work would be appreciated.”

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