It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Adriano Luis de Oliveira Vala, age 60, on December 27, 2024, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Adriano, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, touched the lives of all who knew him with his infectious laughter, boundless joy, and unwavering love for his family and community.
Adriano was born in Portugal and moved to the United States at the age of 10. While he was always proud of his Portuguese roots, he also became deeply proud to be an American. Adriano loved the life he built here, but his heart remained tied to the place where he was born. His greatest wish in his final days was to return to his birthplace, Portugal, and be laid to rest in the land that held his deepest memories and his heritage.
Fulfilling this wish, however, comes with significant costs. The expenses of repatriating his body to Portugal, arranging for his burial there, and the associated travel costs for his family are substantial. Additionally, the medical bills from his brave fight against cancer have placed an immense financial burden on his loved ones. These costs, combined with the desire to honor his final wishes, have left the family in need of support from the community.
Adriano’s wish to be buried in Portugal is not just about returning to his roots, but also about giving his family the chance to say goodbye in a place that held so much meaning for him. This final act will provide a sense of peace for his loved ones, knowing that he is resting in the country that was always in his heart. However, the financial reality of this wish is overwhelming, and that’s why we are reaching out to you for help.
Your generous contributions will make it possible to honor Adriano’s legacy by fulfilling his final request, while also easing the burden of the medical expenses that came with his fight against cancer. Every donation, no matter the size, will help bring Adriano home and allow his family to carry out his wishes with dignity and love.
A viewing will be held on Thursday, January 2nd, from 5:00 to 9:00 PM at Glick Family Funeral Home in Boca Raton, FL. Please join us in honoring his memory.
We are deeply grateful for any support you can provide, whether financial or in prayer. Your kindness will ensure that Adriano’s legacy lives on and that his final wish is fulfilled. Thank you for being a part of this journey.
Organized by Natalia Cruz
Boca Raton, FL