Joel Goncalves Rocha

It is with a heavy heart we announce the passing of Joel Goncalves Rocha. He was born in Portugal on October 28, 1963. Son of the late Joel Rocha Predeceased by his sisters Celina Da Silva and Judy Rocha. The heart and soul of his family, he was a Devoted/amazing husband, incredible dad, loving son, grandfather and a loyal friend. Known for his, gracious charm and strength, Joel was a loving husband, father, grandfather and dear friend. He is survived by his loving mother Maria Edite Rocha, siblings, Ago, Luis, Celeste, Donna, Judy, spouse, Michelle Chase, Children, Joel, Jessica, Jazzmyne and Jenna.

He was a cherished grandfather of Justice, Jordyne, Jasenya, Jasper, Jase, Jaylee, Julianna, Josie, Colton, Daymian, Jayla, Jaxon, Jazlyn, Ja’Liyah-Alexis, J’Lynn and Ja’Nayah.

As a husband, father, uncle, brother, son, cousin, and friend he was loving, true and trustworthy. Joel was always ready and willing to listen and help whenever needed. He was a person who was open minded and passionate about his opinions. His absence leaves an aching void in our hearts, but his spirit lives on in the cherished memories we hold dear.

A man of unyielding kindness, his generous and infectious spirit touched the lives of everyone he met. Above all, he was a family man. He crafted a life with those he loved through shared dreams, mutual respect, and an unwavering support that stood as a testament to his character. He found joy and solace in the companionship of his loyal dogs. They were all peas in a pod, some of the most stubborn spirits you would ever meet, but with endless playtime, and adventures.

Joel's is favorite place was by the campsite or day park watching his grandchildren play and have fun. He will always be their number one fan and supporter. His family will miss their biggest supporter but his legacy of service, love, and compassion will live on forever. His passion for camping was not just a hobby, but a true love and a testament to his appreciation for the journey, for freedom, and the thrill of the great outdoors. His magnetic personality and glowing smile drew everyone to him. His positive attitude and comforting presence will be missed by all that know him. He connected profoundly with all of his family, illuminating the lives of others with his charismatic smile, quick witted smart remarks and contagious laugh. He leaves behind his heartbroken mother & wife, grieving children & siblings and 16 grandchildren who were honored to know him in life. Each moment shared, every memory crafted, stands as a beacon of his enduring presence among us. His magnetic personality and glowing smile drew everyone to him. His positive attitude and comforting presence will be missed by all that know him. His love for his family was immeasurable.

His life was marked by patriotism an unwavering dedication to his family. He embraced his role as a father with boundless love and care, always putting his children’s well-being above all else. His spirit and guidance helped shape their lives, and his legacy will forever remain in their hearts.

A devoted and engaged father and Grandfather, his favorite place was by the campsite or day park watching his grandchildren play and have fun. He will always be their number one fan and supporter. His family will miss their biggest supporter but his legacy of service, love, and compassion will live on forever.

His inquisitiveness and keen intellect drove all his pursuits.He was a principled man of integrity always in search of the truth. Joel's kindness, generosity, and youthful spirit endeared to all who knew him. His vibrant personality and love of music was well known to those who knew him, Shopping often with his children was one of his favorite pastimes. His zest for life was contagious. When walking into a room he occupied, you could not help but smile the moment you saw him. He always embraced each moment with a spirit of fun and joy.

He always imparted an encouraging and welcoming smile to everyone he met or shared his presence with. He worked hard to build up himself and others around him. His caring and supportive nature allowed people around him to know they could lean on him. His courage, determination and charm defined him. Nothing meant more to him than being surrounded by family and friends as often as possible.

To know him was to love him as witnessed by his family and loyal friendships throughout the years. Most importantly, his acts of kindness have touched many lives. He loved unconditionally and was the fierce protector of those he loved. His love for his family was immeasurable.

He’s known by his family as grandpa/daddy/dad/papa, who was a sweet man and a kind soul. Small but mighty with an enormous spirit. A man with a giant heart and a playful sense of humor. He was tremendously caring and embraced all of his loved ones with no judgement and no expectations. He accepted everyone at face value and never cast ill will towards anyone.

An avid hockey fan, who loved cottage life and the outdoors with his family and friends. He has always been, and will continue to be a pillar of strength for his family. His unwavering determination and resilience throughout his journey with his condition has made him a hero to all those who knew him. His humor, humble ways, gentle smile and kindness will live on forever through all of us.

Masters of the grill he and his spouse were the gracious host of innumerable Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter celebrations, plus any other opportunities to get together for his large extended family. For many years, his home was the preferred venue for fun.

He loved big family dinners, spending time with his grandchildren and travelling with his spouse by his side. He always had a smile on his face. He was a generous soul, and he cherished spending time with his family telling good stories. There’s so much more about him that not even words can describe. His infectious smile, dedication and generosity will be greatly missed by his family and friends. As we mourn the loss of him, we find comfort in the countless memories he leaves behind. His love, kindness, and unwavering devotion to family will forever serve as a guiding light in all that knew him. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

"Joel Rocha, the man, the myth, the legend"

The family appreciates all of your prayers and kind gestures during this difficult time.

A visitation for Joel will be held Thursday, August 8, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Jerrett Funeral Homes, 660 Kennedy Road, Toronto, ON M1K2B5. A funeral service will occur Friday, August 9, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 660 Kennedy Road, Toronto, ON M1K2B5. A burial at highland memorial gardens will occur at Highland Memory Gardens, 33 Memory Gardens Ln, Toronto, ON M2H 3K4.

In lieu of flowers, contributions/donations to the family can be made to help in this time of need, please click the link below to donate.

https://gofund.me/dcdb0a6e

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at https://www.dignitymemorial.com/en-ca/obituaries/toronto-on/joel-rocha-11924126 for the family.