Obituary of Rogério Macedo Borém

February 24, 2025

Rogério Macedo Borém passed away peacefully at the age of 57 on Monday, February 24, 2025, surrounded by his family. He fought a battle with cancer in such a courageous way that it awed his many doctors.

Rogério was born on January 11, 1968, in Montes Claros, Minas Gerais. He was the third of five sons born to his parents, Henrique Borém and Terezinha Borém. His brothers Fernando, Henrique, Guilherme, and Vinicius now cherish the memory of their beloved sibling and mourn his passing.

During his childhood, Rogério won numerous medals for his talent in backstroke swimming. After graduating from Marista High School, he went on to study Information Technology at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ). Living in a big city and meeting new people filled Rogério with curiosity about the world, and he went off to explore France, where he lived in both Paris and Corsica. In 1994, he moved to New York City and called it home.

Rogério shared a beautiful love story with Joe Castaldo, whom he met in 1999 and married on June 26, 2013. They formed an inspiring couple and gave each other the happiest years of their lives. As a loyal life partner and supporter, Joe stood by Rogério through all treatments, scans, and meetings. Rogerio's father even nicknamed Joe as 'Roger's Angel". Joe will deeply miss Rogério and will always treasure the 26 years they spent together.

Rogério happily worked for many years at Style Council. He was also a longtime volunteer at GMHC, providing valuable contributions in fostering hotline camaraderie. Roger, or Roy – names he also went by – was known for his kindness and strength, adored playing board games, and was a figure skating enthusiast.

Though he is no longer with us, Rogério’s warmth and vibrant spirit will live forever.