It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our dear father Elias, on Monday, September 28, 2020 at the age of 89. 

​

Elias was pre-deceased by his wife Floripes, daughter Grace; parents Elias and Candida; and sisters Rosalinda, Maria Olinda, brothers Joaquin and Manuel.  Remaining to forever cherish his memory children Philomena (Rob), John (Melanie), Mary (Brent); grandchildren Brittany, Stephanie, Mariah, Alanna, Mikayla, Brandon, Matthew, Samantha; sisters Rita, Conceicao; brothers Eduardo, Alirio and numerous relatives in Winnipeg, Toronto and Portugal.

Dad was born in Rebordosa, Portugal and later as a young child his family moved to Sao Miguel, Azores, Portugal.  Growing up dad had a passion for sports, in particular soccer.  He was a very skilled soccer player who became captain of his team and went on to play national competitions representing his island in Azores.  His other passion was mechanics, especially his love for cars.  He could be found in the garage next to the hood of a car.   

​

He first met mom when he was eight years old. They would go on to spend 64 years of marriage together, with three beautiful children. Elias immigrated to Canada in 1957 with his wife and daughter later following the journey to Winnipeg in 1963.  Dad went to school at Red River College and received his Painter Certificate. He went on to successfully own and operate Top Painting and Decorating for many years up until his retirement.  He was a self-learned “jack of all trades”.  He kept busy with construction and building projects including his cottage.

​

Throughout his years he was a well known and respected member of the Portuguese community.  Dad was one of the founders and coach of the Portuguese Association, Luso Canadian and Micaelense soccer teams.  

​

He was a pillar of strength to those who immigrated here and often helped them with employment opportunities or assistance in getting their lives started. 

​

He loved spending time at the family cottage, and sharing stories with his grandchildren, friends or relatives about his old soccer days and childhood memories.   Family was everything to dad, he was very protective of his entire family and always offered his help. ​

​

Donations can be made in memory of dad to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation.  The Family would like to thank all those involved in his care; CancerCare, Health Sciences Centre and especially St. Boniface Palliative Care.

​

Elias’ family kindly requests that all of his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by watching the photo-biography above. They also encourage the sharing of photos, memories, and stories by making use of the comment section on this page.

​

Due to COVID–19 restrictions a private family Viewing will be held at 10 am. on Tuesday, October 6th, followed by private Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 am at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Roman Catholic Church, 4588 Roblin Blvd. Interment will be in Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens. 

​

​

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St, Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

​