ROCHA, Manuel Lima - Manuel Lima Rocha passed away peacefully at Trillium Hospital - Mississauga on Saturday, October 31st, 2020 at the age of 73, with family by his side.
Manuel is survived by Nelia, his beloved wife of 48 years; his proud children Nelson (Angie), Marisa (Greg) and Brian; his cherished granddaughters Eden, Kristen, Lauren, Shea and Lia; loving siblings João (Filomena), Constantino (Irene), Filomena (Francisco), Nivea (Juvelino), Ana Maria and (Maria).
He was predeceased by his brother José.
He is fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, godchildren, his extended family and his many friends.
Manuel was born on September 26, 1947 in the village of Agualva (Outeiros), Terceira, Acores, Portugal to Maria Rosa de Lima and Constantino Coelho da Rocha. He grew up in Agualva where he supported his family working as a farm hand with his father and brothers and later in construction. Between 1968 and 1972, he served in the Portuguese Armed Forces under the Companhia de Caçadores No. 2422, Battalion No. 17, where he was deployed to Mozambique. He was wounded in battle and decorated with the distinguished Medal of Military Valour. When he returned home, he married Nelia in Agualva on August 6th, 1972 at the Igreja de Nossa Senhora de Guadalupe.
They immigrated to Canada after their marriage and started their family in Toronto. He worked at Arvin Ride Control (Gabriel) for 36 years until his retirement, where he was affectionately nicknamed "Rocco" and made many life-long friends. He was an active member of the St. Sebastian's Church community, volunteering with the parent committee of Scouts Group 78. They moved to Mississauga in 2000 where he enjoyed the remaining years of his life.
Manuel led a simple yet fulfilling life. He was a true family man, dedicated to his wife, kids and extended family, opening his home to all that knocked on his door. He was his best self in his garden tending to his vegetables or his workshop, tinkering with tools on his next great invention or fixing something for anyone who asked. He greeted everyone with his warm, affectionate smile, his kind heart and gentle soul. He was generous with his storytelling to anyone lending their ear, offering tales of him growing up in Terceira, his time in the army or his early days as an immigrant. He will be sorely missed by all those whose lives he touched, especially his family.
We thank everyone for their love and support during the challenging moments towards the end of his life's journey and his peaceful passing to eternal life.
A funeral service is scheduled for Friday, November 6th, with arrangements entrusted with Scott funeral home, Mississauga chapel. Due to current restrictions, the family is forced to choose a limited number of participants to meet current provincial guidelines. Those details will be shared directly with family and friends. We apologize to all those who may not be able to attend and appreciate their understanding in these difficult times. A celebration of life is planned for a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
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