Robert Cao

Robert Cao, age 86, of Secaucus, New Jersey passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. He was born in Havana, Cuba on July 28, 1938 to parents Margarita Migliori of Italy and Manuel Cao of Spain. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle who touched the lives of many through his work, family, and kindness.

Robert completed his studies at Hermanos de La Salle school and University in Cuba before relocating to Spain in 1961 with his sister. There, he began his career with the Spanish construction company Dragados y Construcciones. In 1966, he moved to New Jersey, marking the beginning of his new life in the United States. Robert continued to work in the construction field, joining Wilkinson and Son Company, where he made lasting professional contributions.

In 1968, Robert met his future wife, Luisa Menendez, and they married soon after in that same year of 1968. Their union was blessed with a son, Robert Andrew, in July of 1971. Together with family, they ventured into business, opening El Chiquilin Español, alongside Luisa and her sister Elia, a Spanish children’s boutique in West New York, NJ. Robert later partnered with his son, Robert Andrew, to establish RAC Landscaping Contractors in Secaucus, NJ.

A devoted Catholic, Robert was also a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, fourth degree, an organization that reflected his deep faith and commitment to service. Robert was a devoted family man whose love for his wife, son, and grandchildren was unwavering. Robert's dedication to his family was a cornerstone of his life, and he took immense pride in his loved ones. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Luisa, his son Robert Andrew, and his daughter-in-law Erica, as well as his cherished grandchildren: Emma, Ava, and Robbie.

Robert is also survived by his only sibling, his sister Margarita, along with his nieces Christine, Susan, and Maggie, and nephews Ray, Alex, and Sergio. He will be remembered fondly by his ten great nieces and nephews, all of whom he held close to his heart. Robert’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. His generosity, warmth, and dedication to his family will be fondly remembered.

A visitation for Robert will be held Monday, March 24, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Leber Funeral Home/ Mack Memorial Home, 1245 Paterson Plank Road, Secaucus, NJ 07094. The funeral mass will be on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 from 10:45 AM to 11:45 AM at Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church, 1219 Paterson Plank Rd, Secaucus, NJ 07094. A committal service will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery & Mausoleum, 340 Ridge Rd, North Arlington, NJ 07031. Robert Cao, age 86 passed away on Tuesday, March 18, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Robert's memory may be made to St Jude Children's Research Hospital, www.stjude.org.