Gilberto Rosa, Jr.

Gilbert Rosa, Jr., a decorated veteran of the United States Army, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 29, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of courage, dedication, and service to his country.

We respectfully request that no one arrive at the funeral home prior to the posted visitation times, so as not to intrude on the family’s private time. 

Family and friends are invited to the visitation in the Kowalski Funeral Home, 515 Roselle Street, Linden on Thursday, September 12th. from 5:00-9:00PM with a Prayer Service at 6:00PM, followed by the Sharing of Memories at 6:30PM.  On Friday, September 13th. at 9:00AM, everyone will start to gather in the funeral home where the final farewell will begin at 9:30AM.  At 12:30PM, the prayers of committal with a Military Honors Detail will precede Gilberto’s burial in the Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Wrightstown, New Jersey.

Affectionately called “Junito” by his family and “Gil’ by his friends, Gilberto was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York.  At the age of 22, he went to California and enlisted in the U.S. Army at the age of 26 and went to El Paso, Texas.  In 2012, Gil returned to Brooklyn and four years later he settled in Roselle, New Jersey. 

Born with a calling to serve, Gilberto answered that call with distinction, serving two tours in Iraq and one in Afghanistan. His bravery and commitment to his fellow soldiers and the mission at hand earned him numerous awards and commendations throughout his military career.

Gilberto was honored with the Joint Service Commendation Ribbon, a testament to his exceptional performance across multiple branches of the military. His service in the Army was marked by the receipt of the Army Commendation Ribbon, distinguished further by 3 Bronze Oak Leaves, recognizing his repeated acts of meritorious service. His achievements also included the Army Achievement Ribbon, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Ribbon, and the Combat Action Badge, underscoring his bravery and direct engagement in combat situations.

His steadfast dedication was further recognized with the Army Good Conduct Ribbon, a reflection of his unwavering discipline and professionalism. Gilberto was a proud recipient of the National Defense Service Ribbon (NDSM), the Afghanistan Campaign Ribbon, the Iraq Campaign Ribbon, and the Global War On Terrorism Service Ribbon, all of which highlighted his critical role in defending our nation during its most challenging times.

In addition to his combat-related honors, Gilberto received the Armed Forces Reserve Ribbon, signifying his readiness and willingness to serve whenever his country called. He was also awarded the Army NCO Professional Development Ribbon, the Army Service Ribbon, and the Army Overseas Service Ribbon, with 3 devices, demonstrating his commitment to continuous growth and excellence in his military career.

Gilberto's service was recognized internationally with the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) Non-Article 5 NATO Ribbon, acknowledging his contributions to global peace and security during his deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Gilberto’s extracurricular interests included his perseverance as a diehard New York Mets baseball fan and an enthusiastic rooter for the New York Giants football team.  He was a part of the association called “amigos del deporte” (friends of sports) where some of his roles included being the photographer/videographer as well as the supervisor of the tournaments.  Gilberto thoroughly enjoyed cooking for himself and others, playing video games on his phone, cruising and was a notable “prankster” who often got the better of unsuspecting family and friends.  His favorite pastime was playing hide and seek with his three years old great niece, Mala.  Gilberto always encouraged young boys and men to pursue independence and be self-reliant – a trait that he acquired in the Army.

Junito leaves behind the many loves of his life; his wife, Sandra A. Alejandro Rosa; his son, Gilberto "Porkchop" Rosa III; his parents, Helen Soto Rosa and Gilberto Rosa, Sr.; his two brothers, Roberto Rosa and his wife, Ashey and Francisco Rosa and his wife, LaShauna; his sister, Laura Rosa-Romero and her husband, Carlos Romero and Junito’s many extended family members, neighbors and friends.

Gilbert Rosa’s life was a testament to the values of honor, courage, and commitment. He served his country with distinction, and his legacy will live on as a beacon of dedication and service for future generations.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gilberto Rosa, Jr., please visit our floral store.