Robert Cardoso

ROBERT CARDOSO April 12, 1967 - April 23, 2024 Our Dad, Robert Cardoso, 57, passed away unexpectedly on April 23, 2024. Born on April 12, 1967, in El Paso, Texas, he was the second born child to John and Barbara Cardoso. As a child the family relocated to Chula Vista, California where he was raised and met his soulmate, Julie Little Cardoso, at Bonita Vista High School. The two were instantly inseparable and went on to raise two children, daughter, Katy Kooyman, and son, Johnny Cardoso. As a kid his friends and family remember him being wild, but doing it with skill. His calm and collected demeanor won everyone over. Robert’s siblings looked up to him like a Dad and he taught and nurtured them in his own way. He wasn't a brother who picked on you. Favorite memories of his youth include when he practiced falconry, perfected risk-taking and mastered broken bones. If you had the opportunity to hear stories of his younger years, you were in for a laugh, or a good scare. Robert moved his family from Chula Vista, California to Butte, Montana in January of 1992, where he lived the rest of his life. Robert dedicated his life to providing for his family, and was most happiest when called “Papa.” He worked hard as a local freight hauler for both Montana Broom and Brush and UPS over the years. Dad loved his job, loved to drive those trucks, and always loved to share stories about his adventures driving in the mountains on his UPS route. He was so happy to call Montana his home and found every opportunity to embrace the beauty it has to offer. From bald eagles to barbecuing in the snow below freezing, Robert loved the life he built in Montana. He knew he had a great green thumb and his garden was admired by all who knew him. Whether he was taking scenic rides, packing for a picnic with a view, or reminding us to check our oil; he was the one who led the family and held everything together. We will cherish his guidance and bravery and always hold on to the good he instilled in us. Friends remember hanging out at the house, and Dad making sure everyone was well fed, taken care of, and part of the family. He was always a phone call away and ended every conversation with “love yaz.” Our dad loved to laugh, relax, and ‘get stuff done.’ He had a unique, determined, resilient way of navigating life. Dad taught us to stand up for what we believe in. Although it is hard to believe he is no longer physically with us, we know he is at peace and forever with us until we meet again. We're proud of all you did during your short time with us, Dad. Robert was met on the other side by his mom and dad, Barbara and John Cardoso; older brother, Mony Cardoso; father in law, Tony Caliger; our family dog of 16 years, Hunny girl, and our kitty of 10 years, Roxy. He will be remembered by everyone who loves him here on Earth: best friend Julie Little Cardoso, daughter Katy Kooyman and her husband Tim Kooyman and granddaughters Keyenna McGee, Tayvah Stiff, Amiya Little, and Maxyne Kooyman; son Johnny Cardoso and his partner Melissa Gattuso; younger sister Cindy Cardoso and her husband Bobby Ziomek; younger brother Richard Cardoso; mother in law Suzanne Caliger; and many other friends and family. This is not goodbye, just a new way of life with you. Rest easy Dad, see you on the other side. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the family’s cremation and services fund at www.gofundme.com/robert-cardoso and/or consider donating to The Butte SPIRIT Homes www.buttespirit.org/donate/.

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Robert Cardoso

April 12, 1967 - April 23, 2024