Jorge Luis Rodriguez

It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we share the passing of our beloved husband and father, Jorge Luis Rodriguez at home on the morning of March 3, 2025. Born on September 10, 1963, in Las Tunas, Cuba. Jorge came to Canada in 1987 and settled in Halifax Nova Scotia. He is survived by his devoted wife, Nadia; his children, Enrico, Ofelia, and Ariana; and his extended family, Matilde Gongora, and Omar Quevedo, and Arianna Roca. Jorge built a life defined by resilience, sacrifice, and an unwavering love for his family.

Jorge faced every challenge with determination, working tirelessly to provide opportunities for those he loved. From his time working on oil rigs, putting himself in harm’s way to secure a better future, to teaching himself the craft of barbering and building a business from the ground up, he proved that talent, discipline, and hard work could overcome any obstacle. His clients admired him not just for his skill, but for the way he made them feel seen, heard, and valued.

Jorge was a man of strength, the kind of person people naturally respected. He never took shortcuts, never made excuses, and never backed down from hard work. He carried himself with confidence, whether it was the way he dressed, the way he spoke, or the way he handled himself in any situation.

More than anything, Jorge was a devoted father. He didn’t just provide; he paved the way for his family to thrive. He made sure his roots were never forgotten, passing down a deep connection to Cuban culture and the importance of family into everything he did. Whether he was showing off his salsa moves, insisting everyone try his homemade plantain chips, or playing Cuban tunes in the car, he carried his heritage with pride and made sure those around him felt it too. Taking his family to Cuba wasn’t just about visiting beautiful beaches and sunshine, it was about reconnecting with extended family, immersing them in the history, and the traditions that shaped him. It was his way of ensuring that no matter where life took them, they would always know where they came from.

Beyond his work and responsibilities, Jorge had a way of making the little things feel important. His barbecues weren’t just meals; they were events, filled with laughter, stories, and the togetherness of family. A simple walk to the corner store could turn into a memory that lasted a lifetime. He didn’t need grand gestures to show his love, it was in the small, everyday things, the quiet ways he looked out for the people he cared about.

Jorge was a man who lived with purpose and pride. He gave his family the kind of strength that doesn’t fade with time, the type that stays with them in the way they carry themselves, the way they push through challenges, and in the way they love. Though he may no longer be here, his presence will never leave the people who knew him best. His love, guidance, and spirit will live on in the lives he touched.

We would like to thank Dr. Lori Wood, Nurse Donna, the oncology team on the 11th floor at the Victoria General, Nurse Megan Farmer and Dr. General on the palliative care team and family doctor Dr. Pedro Diaz.

In honor of his memory, donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.