Octavio Gonzalez

It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Octavio Gonzalez, beloved husband, devoted father, cherished son, and treasured friend. Octavio left us on June 22, 2025, leaving behind an enduring legacy of love, laughter, and light.

Born in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico in 1974 to Haydee Pena and the late Egidio Gonzalez, Octavio was the third of their children. He spent his early years in Puerto Rico before moving to Brooklyn, New York, where his vibrant spirit and easy smile quickly made him a friend to all.

While at Eastwick College, Octavio met the love of his life and partner in crime, April. Their connection was instant and undeniable. The two married in 2011 and that same year moved to Ridgewood, New Jersey, where they built a beautiful life and started their family. Octavio was the proud and loving father of Mateo (12) and Ava (9), who were the heart of his world.

Professionally, Octavio was a successful entrepreneur and self-starter, building a thriving career as a consultant in medical mobile imaging who served doctors’ offices and clinics across the tri-state area. He was admired for his initiative, expertise, and the personal warmth he brought to every partnership.

Yet it was in Ridgewood where Octavio’s vibrant spirit truly shone. A creative force and natural performer, he poured unmatched energy, humor, and heart into Dads’ Night and the Somerville & Hawes community. He lit up every room with his wit, warmth, and infectious joy. Above all, he was a proud father—cheering from the sidelines at Mateo’s baseball, football, and soccer games, dancing and do-si-doing with Ava at every Girl Scout event and applauding her every flip in gymnastics and routine.

Octavio was also a proud member of Ridgewood’s baseball team and a passionate performer in the Dads’ Night Band, where his talent, charisma, and love of music brought joy to audiences and fellow dads alike.

He is survived by his wife April, his children Mateo and Ava, his mother Haydee, his sister Haydee Kapetanakis (George), his brother Cano Gonzalez (Meliza), and his beloved niece and nephews, Gabriella, Markos, Dylon, Kyle, Jared and Logan —as well as countless friends, extended family, and members of the Ridgewood community who will carry his memory forward.

Viewings will be held on Friday, June 27, from 2:00–4:00 PM and 7:00–9:00 PM at Feeney Funeral Home (232 Franklin Ave, Ridgewood, NJ).

A Mass will be held on Saturday, June 28, at 10:00 AM at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Ridgewood.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Gonzalez Family Go Fund Me to support April, Mateo, and Ava during this time of unimaginable loss.

Let us honor Octavio the way he lived, through love, community, and a spirit that lifted us all.