Gerald H. Cardoza, 80, of Mattapoisett, died Saturday, July 1, 2017 at St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford. He was the husband of Georgia P. Ameia Yen-Patton.
Born in Boston, he was the son of the late Eva (Roderick) and Henry Cardoza. Mr. Cardoza graduated from Florida A & M University on a full football scholarship graduating on the Honor Roll and received his Master of Education in Guidance at Bridgewater State University.
Gerald Cardoza was recognized by the Massachusetts House of Legislation and Senate for his 34 years of distinguished service to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Mr. Cardoza was an administrator at Taunton State Hospital as Director of Environment and Safety and developed educational programs for Massachusetts Multicultural Affairs in issues of ethnicity and pharmacology, gerontology and mental illness.
Previously, he taught physical education for Bourne Public Schools for 14 years. He developed gymnastics programs for children with special needs and innovative teaching programs to enhance education in the classroom. He developed educational programs for Bridgewater prison inmates to improve their mind and outlook on life. Mr. Cardoza also used music and agriculture as therapeutic interventions for Westborough patients with mental health challenges. He was certified in gerontology as well as more than 50 other areas of education.
He and his brother Wilson Cardoza were a formidable team in golf winning many trophies across the country providing scholarships for young students.
He was a kind loving and devoted son, brother, uncle, husband, father and friend.
He was compassionate and passionate in helping others become better human beings.
He was an all-around athlete which included baseball, football, and track.
He is survived by his wife, Ameia Yen-Patton; his children, Lisa Field and Robin Cardoza both of West Palm Beach, FL, and Brian Cardoza of San Francisco, CA; his step-son, Peter Yen Patton of Mattapoisett; his brother Ronald Cardoza and only sister Marie Elena Cardoza, both of Sun City Center, FL; three grandchildren, Austin, Christian and Danielle, and two great grandchildren in Florida. He was predeceased by his daughter, the late Theresa Cardoza, his mother Eva Roderick Cardoza and his brothers, Dennis A. Cardoza and Wilson E. Cardoza.
A graveside service will be held on Thursday., July 13, 2017 at 11:00 am at St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Tihonet Road, Wareham. Visiting hours have been omitted.
