Odmir Jose Rodrigues

Our Anchor

Today, we gather to celebrate the life of a remarkable, compassionate, and loving man, Odmir José Rodrigues.

Odmir was born on September 4th, 1944, in Ponta Verde, Cabo Verde, as the beloved son of Marcelino José Rodrigues and Lucinda Galvão, whom he sadly never had the chance to meet, as she passed away shortly after his birth. Raised with strength and resilience, Odmir completed his studies in Praia, and at the age of 18, he enlisted in the Army, later being selected to join the Air Force, a testament to his discipline, courage, and dedication.

In early 1968, Odmir immigrated to Angola, where destiny brought him to the love of his life, Natália, with whom he shared a lifetime of devotion and raised six precious children. Together, they built a home rooted in love, hard work, and faith.

Odmir was more than a husband, a father, or a friend. He was a presence of warmth, wisdom, and a quiet strength. His devotion to his family was unwavering. His wife, children, and grandchildren were his greatest joy, the roots that grounded him and the inspiration behind everything he did.

In 1987, with tremendous courage and sacrifice, Odmir left everything behind in Angola to bring his family to a place of safety and opportunity. Life in a new country was difficult, and he worked tirelessly in factories as an undocumented immigrant to support his family. He did it all with pride. His heart was at peace knowing his children were secure and thriving.

Odmir was a strong and gentle man who was always giving, and ready for a good conversation. Anyone who knew Odmir knew that if you needed a helping hand, he was the first to offer it. His compassion extended far beyond his family but to everyone who crossed his path.

Odmir had a deep love for nature. He felt a profound connection to the earth. A bond he expressed through his passion for farming and planting trees. He created a little gardening space in the backyard which he named "Ponta Verde" and his grandchildren who lovingly know him as "Tutu" still remember yelling from the deck "ben Come" (come eat). Odmir would often get lost in time when he was working on his little "Ponta Verde" farm which is a testament to his passion for farming. Every vacation we took he would always carry seeds and hide plants on his luggage to take back to Cabo Verde. His backyard in Fogo has trees from many different countries and each one telling a story of his journey and concerns for the environment. He used to say that "Every tree tells a story of a man's journey, of hope, and of growth."

Odmir also found peace in the ocean. Fishing was his way of meditating. The motion of the waves, the gentle pull of the tide, and the patience it demanded brought him joy and tranquility. The cries of seabirds, the sparkle of sunlight on the water, the camaraderie and the thrill of catching a fish connected him deeply to the natural world and to his friends.

What set Odmir apart was his curiosity and his understanding of the wider world. He was a historian and always ready to share his knowledge. He believed deeply in humanity and treated everyone with respect and humility. He saw the world not only as it is but as it could be peaceful and full of possibilities.

Though we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life that exemplified purpose, kindness, and grace. His lessons will continue to guide us. His trees will continue to grow to tell a story. His love will forever live in our heart.

Odmir leaves behind his devoted wife Natália Rodrigues; his children João Rodrigues, Paulo Rodrigues, Lucinda Silva, Olga Gomes, Sandra Mancebo, and Valdir Rodrigues; 17 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren.

Rest in peace, Odmir Rodrigues.
Your roots run deep, and your spirit will continue to bloom among us.