"Joe was an amazing man with a huge heart. It brings me comfort to know that he is in heaven with Dottie, and they are finally together again. I am so glad that I was able to visit with him the last time I was in RI. During that visit, he brought me back to my childhood with all of his stories of my brother and I---I will never forget that. Emmy and Jay--the two of you should be proud that you did the very best that you both could do for Joe. I know it wasn't easy, working, taking care of Jordan, the house........but you did it. He was able to be surrounded by the people who loved and cared for him during his time of passing. May god bless you and give you strength during this difficult time."
In loving memory of
Joseph Rego
September 12, 1917 - February 5, 2009
Middletown, RI - Joseph Papa Joe Rego, 91, of 1653 West Main Road, Middletown, RI, died Thursday, February 5, 2009 in the home that he build for his family with them by his side. He was the husband of the late Dorothy M. Mello Rego. Mr. Rego was born in Portsmouth, RI on September 12, 1917 the son of the late Manuel and Mary DeMenzes Rego.Mr. Rego worked as a roofer and carpenter as a young man. He was drafted into the United States Navy during World War II and Korea as a gunners mate. Mr. Rego returned home and built the house he lives in the rest of his life. After his marriage to Mrs. Rego he began his career in sanitation and septic tank work in the family business, for 50 years with other family members along the way. He loved spending time taking care of his yard and was a true landscaper at heart. Mr. Rego was an outgoing People Person who loved joking and spending time talking with his customers. He is survived by his daughters Emilia Neves and Catherine Violet of Middletown, RI, his grandchildren, Heather Kielbasa, Henry Gifford, Rachel Gifford, Jordan Neves, Jessica Violet and Stephen Violet and his great granddaughter Matison Slagle. He was the brother of the late Anthony Rego, Manuel Rego, Isabella Gracie and Mary Rego. His funeral will be held on Tuesday, February 10, 2009, 10:00 am in Connors Funeral Home, 55 West Main Road, Portsmouth. Burial will be in St. Columba Cemetery in Middletown.Calling hours will be held on Monday, February 9, 2009, from 5-8 in the funeral home.Donations in his memory may be made to Beacon Hospice, 529 Main Street, Suite 101, Charlestown, MA, 02129.
Tributes
"I am very sorry that Uncle Joe left our world to join his lovely wife. He was a very nice man. God Bless."
"In the early 70's Joe installed a new septic system at our home in Black Point. He came faithfully to clean and maintain it for many years. His service was wonderful but it was his conversations that were great. We spoke of all manner of things - the Navy - the weather - the economy - the neighbors - his family - my family. He was truly a treasure and my whole family enjoyed knowing him. Our condolences to all his family."
"I didn't know the family, but as a homeowner in Portsmouth for years, I met Mr. Rego. Mr. Rego was a wonderful man. I am very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Kate"
"Emmy, although I really didn't know your dad very well I do have a few funny memories of him, I know how much he was loved by you and how you chose to give up your life so you could care for him in his last days. I know that was the hardest thing you've ever had to do, but you saw it through, you never gave up, even when you were tempted to, and you kept your word to him. If he could have expressed to you what was in his heart, it may have sounded something like this, "Emmy, thank you so much for all you went through for me. I'm proud to call you my daughter. You could have put me away in a nursing home, but you were unselfish and put me above your own needs. God does not forget and neither will I." Emmy, your dad prayed and believed that Jesus was his Lord and Savior and he's in heaven with your mom where he's wanted to be for a long time. Some day you will be reunited with him and he will tell you himself what he could not say while he was here. Don't forget - you are going to reap what you have sown! That's what God says. Look for it! It's going to be good. I love you! Annie "Be anxious for nothing but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your heart and mind through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7"
"I send my sympathy and prayers to Joe's family. For many years, while I was at St. Philomena School and Convent, Joe was a great help to me. He had such a big heart! I last saw him when I visited with him in the Grand Islander several months ago. May he rest in peace."
"Dear Cathy and Family, So sorry to read about the passing of your Dad.Please know we are thinking of you at this time.I have good memories of your Dad when way back when hanging at your pool he always had a joke to share.Remember all the good times. Thinking of you all Jill"
"Emmy, Cathy and families-My Uncle Joe will be missed. I feel blessed to have seen him regularly in the last years. . .great memories of my childhood include his spirit. May God speed! Love, Rebecca & Adam"
"Cathy & Family: I'm so sorry to hear about the passing of your dad. Hold tight to family and friends to help you get through this difficult time. Kris"