Gerard "Rod" Giroux, 71, of Metuchen, New Jersey, passed away, Thursday, February 14, 2013 at Haven Hospice, JFK Medical Center. Gerard was born February 10, 1942 in Jersey City to Alexander and Catherine (Baker) Giroux. He graduated from Audubon High School in 1960. Gerard served honorably as a United States Air Force Veteran during the Vietnam War. Rod was self-employed as an electrical contractor for most of his career. Rod looked forward to playing cards, spending time with his family, and doing home-improvements around the house. Rod was proud of his sons and cherished his grandchildren, who affectionately called him "Papa". He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Paulette (D'Ippolito) Giroux; Three sons, Gerard Giroux, Jr. of Metuchen, Christopher Giroux of Hillsborough, and Andrew Giroux and his wife Carie of Readington; Three grandchildren, Lauren, Andrew and Jonathan; Four sisters, Mary Miller of Florida, Anne Kuhn of New Jersey, Elizabeth Petro of Arizona, and Adrianne Nuzzo of Florida; Three brothers, Joseph of New Jersey, Paul of Florida, and John of New Jersey; and 20 nieces and nephews. Gerard was predeceased by his parents Alexander and Catherine Giroux; and a brother Allen Giroux. Funeral will take place on Monday, February 18, 2013 9:30 a.m. from COSTELLO-KOYEN FUNERAL HOME (www.Costello-koyen.com) 399 Avenel Street, Avenel. A 10:00 a.m. Funeral liturgy will take place at St. Cecelia's R.C. Church, Iselin. Entombment will follow at St Gertrude's in Colonia. Visitation will be Sunday from 2-4 7 7-9 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation in honor of Mr. Giroux to the American Diabetes Association, Muscular Dystrophy Association or Haven Hospice at JFK Medical Center.