David J. Portal Obituary
David "Papapa" Portal, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at the age of 92 on August 28, 2025, surrounded by the family he worked so hard to provide for.
Born on February 27, 1933, in Lima, Peru, Papapa was known for his kind heart, friendly spirit, sense of humor, love for fútbol, and ability to connect with everyone he met, regardless of the language barrier. In Lima, he owned and operated a popular Peruvian restaurant frequented by musicians, where his warmth and charisma made him well-loved in the community.
Papapa's love for food extended beyond his restaurant to family gatherings. He never missed the opportunity to be around his family and friends whether it was celebrating birthdays or a simple Sunday afternoon. Whether he was behind the stove or blender, the menu never disappointed. Papapa made sure your plate was never empty and your pisco sour was always full.
David's greatest ambition was to provide for his family. Determined to give them greater opportunities, he made the courageous decision to immigrate with his wife, Rosa, and his two younger children to Long Island, New York. There, he started his journey, leaving behind his two older children in Peru, and the familiar, for the unknown. He worked countless jobs—often at all hours of the day and night—so that his children, and later his grandchildren, could build their lives on a foundation of security and possibility.
His tireless work ethic was matched only by his love for his family. Every sacrifice, every hour worked, was an act of devotion. In later years, he and Rosa moved to Gloucester, Massachusetts, to be closer to their daughters and grandchildren. He enjoyed the rewards of his lifelong efforts—watching his family grow not only in size, but in love.
Papapa is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Rosa Portal; his children, Sara Rubin, Myriam and husband Thomas Callahan, Karen and husband Jared Harvey of Gloucester, and son Nahum Milman from Ashkelon, Israel; his grandchildren, Abraham and Nathan Rubin, Benjamin and Geoffrey Callahan, Luna and Sebastian Harvey; 3 grandchildren in Israel and 2 grandchildren in Peru; his great grandchildren, Eleanor and Oscar Rubin, and 3 great grandchildren in Peru.
