PEREIRA, José Fonseca - It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of José, at St. Joe’s Health Centre, on March 16, 2021 at the age of 94. With his love of life, our “walking miracle” had conquered lung cancer (twice!), a stroke, two heart attacks and COVID-19.
Our much loved hero will be dearly missed by his loving wife of nearly 70 years, Laureana, son Gus (Joni), daughter São (Doug), grandson Gilles and granddaughter Amanda (aka Sister Augustina, in the Philippines), brother Valentim, sister Francisca, brother-in-law Jerónimo, cherished nieces and nephews in Canada and in Portugal, and the many friends whose company he enjoyed.
He’s predeceased by his sister Cecília (with whom he shared a birthday) and parents Valério and Júlia.
Born in Bairro, Portugal, our dad immigrated to Canada in 1958, and lived and worked all over Québec, as well as in Labrador and Manitoba, before settling in Toronto, where he switched his allegiance from the Habs to the Leafs.
A passionate Benfiquista, who registered his newborn son in the club even before he left the hospital, he was also a loyal member of the Carpenters’ Union (local 27) for over 60 years, and a proud founding member of the Associação do 25 de Abril in Toronto. Gilles and Gus will surely miss being beaten at dominoes by The Professor.
In lieu of flowers, those who cannot attend may make a donation to The Kidney Foundation of Canada, the Canadian Cancer Society or the Heart and Stroke Foundation if desired.
Due to the current Covid - 19 restrictions in Toronto that allow a maximum number of guests to attend a funeral, the service details will be kept private and attendance will be by invite-only.
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