Roberto Dela Rosa

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Roberto Josue Dela Rosa, who peacefully left us on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2024, at the age of 80. He passed away due to respiratory failure, but his life was filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to his family.

Born on November 11, 1944, to Maria Josue and Bartolome Dela Rosa, Roberto grew up with a strong sense of family and a deep appreciation for the values his parents imparted. His mother, Maria, taught him resilience and compassion, while his father, Bartolome, passed on a quiet strength and generous spirit. These qualities formed the foundation of his character and shaped his caring presence throughout his life.

Roberto was the beloved husband of Amelia (Amy) De Ocampo Dela Rosa, his partner for many decades. Together, they made the courageous decision to leave the Philippines and start a new life in the United States, seeking greater opportunities for their family. Through hard work, faith, and unity, they created a loving home filled with hope, determination, and support for family near and far.

Roberto was a proud father to his only child, Joanna Dela Rosa, and took great joy in being "Lolo" to his two grandchildren, Charley and Madison Badawi, and grand fur baby, Rembrandt (Remy). His passion for learning and curiosity about the world inspired his grandchildren to embrace knowledge, whether through current events, documentaries, or exploring new ideas.

With a Bachelor of Science in Commerce and Accounting, Roberto had a natural gift for mathematics and enjoyed sharing his wisdom. He welcomed his son-in-law, Omar Badawi, into the family with open arms and shared a special bond with his sister, Lily Duey. Roberto and Lily enjoyed a spirited competitive nature that brought them even closer, often pushing each other to be their best. He also had a close relationship with his nephew, Edwin Dela Rosa, whom he often viewed as a son. Roberto also shared memories with his sister, Juliana Ortua. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Lucretia and Asuncion Dela Rosa, whose love continued to influence his life.

Roberto will be remembered for his warm smile, love of nature, and ability to find beauty in life's simplest pleasures. Whether singing Nat King Cole’s Autumn Leaves, cooking up a storm in the kitchen, or savoring treats baked by his granddaughter Charley, Roberto had a special way of making others feel valued and cherished.

His life was a testament to perseverance, love, and devotion. His unwavering faith in God and deep affection for Mother Mary were his guiding lights. As the poem Footprints in the Sand reminds us: "When you saw only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you." Through both life’s joys and challenges, Roberto found comfort and strength in knowing he was always carried in God’s loving embrace. He will be deeply loved and forever held in our hearts.

Family and friends are invited to attend a two-hour Visitation for Mr. Roberto on Friday, December 6, 2024 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Quinn Hopping Funeral Home, 145 East Mount Pleasant Ave, Livingston, NJ 07039. The Funeral Service will be at 11:00 AM at Quinn-Hopping Funeral Home, with a Committal Service to follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery & Mausoleum, 225 Ridgedale Ave, East Hanover, NJ 07936.