Ridgewood Mourns the Loss of Octavio Gonzalez: Beloved Father, Friend, and Dads’ Night Leader

photo courtesy of Dad’s Night

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

RIDGEWOOD, NJ — It is with profound sorrow that the Ridgewood community shares the heartbreaking news of the sudden and unexpected passing of Octavio Gonzalez, a devoted father, husband, and a cornerstone of the Dads’ Night organization. Octavio’s passing on Sunday, June 22, has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

💔 A Life That Lit Up the Room

Octavio Gonzalez was more than just a familiar face—he was the soul of the room. A man full of charisma, humor, and heart, Octavio brought joy, compassion, and a unique spark to everything he touched. Whether it was performing in Dads’ Night, helping a neighbor, or cheering on his children, Mateo and Ava, he did it all with unmatched passion and love. His partner in life, April Gonzalez, was the center of his world, and he was endlessly proud to be her husband.

The evening before his passing, Octavio was laughing and full of life, spending time with one of his closest friends, Ahmad Oloumi. Nothing seemed amiss—a reflection of how sudden and shocking his loss has been.

🎭 The Legacy of Dads’ Night

Founded during World War II, Ridgewood’s Dads’ Night is a cherished local tradition where fathers from Somerville and Hawes Elementary Schools come together to lift spirits, raise funds for local education, and build lifelong bonds through music, comedy, and skits.

Octavio wasn’t just involved—he was a driving force. He encouraged countless others to participate, including Oloumi, who recalls Octavio insisting he join when his daughter entered kindergarten.

“He had so much charisma, so much energy. Octavio was such a vibrant guy. Whether you were an introverted artist or a sports guy, he made you feel seen and better—just by being around him,” said Oloumi.

💗 Honoring Octavio: GoFundMe for the Gonzalez Family

In response to this devastating loss, Dads’ Night and community members have launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Octavio’s family—April, Mateo, and Ava. As of this writing, the campaign has raised over $73,000, a testament to the impact Octavio had on the community.

Every dollar raised will go directly to his family, helping to alleviate financial pressures and provide stability during this difficult time.

🙏 A Call for Community Support

Let us honor Octavio’s legacy the way he lived—with generosity, unity, and unconditional love. The Ridgewood community is stronger because of him, and we now stand together to support the family he adored.

Please consider donating and sharing the fundraiser with your networks. Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference.

To donate or learn more, visit the official GoFundMe campaign supporting the Gonzalez family.

Together, we remember a man who gave so much and ask that you help give back in his name.

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