Born in Cervos Montalegre, Portugal, a son of the late Mario and Germania (DaFonte) Roda, he immigrated to the United States at the age of 21. He lived in New Bedford most of his life before moving to Acushnet for 20 years.
Mr. Roda was a member of the Laborer's International Union of North America Local #22 located in Malden, Ma. for 58 years. He worked for various construction companies in and around the Boston area. He retired as a foreman from P A Landers Asphalt Inc. Plymouth , Ma. in 1998.
Work was his passion and he continued to do various asphalt jobs well into his early 70's.
When he wasn't working he could be found at Seekonk Speedway every Saturday night cheering on his son. He loved long rides, sports, and above all spending time with his children.
He is survived by one son, Peter Roda and his companion Joyce Taylor of New Bedford; one daughter, Michelle Cabral and her husband David of New Bedford; three sisters, Maria Pires and her husband Jose of Fairhaven, Linda Beatriz and her companion Joe Chaves of New Bedford and Maria Chevalier and her husband Michael of New Bedford and his former wife, Jaqueline (Poulin) Carvalho. He was also the brother of the late Joaquim “Jack” Roda and Angelina Magalhaes.
His Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 2, 2018 from 8:30AM to 9:30AM in the Rock Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford, followed be his Funeral Service at 9:30AM. Relatives and friends invited. Burial will take place in Acushnet Cemetery. For tributes/directions: www.rock-funeralhoome.com