Obituary of JOSE MEDEIROS MENDES

JOSE MEDEIROS MENDES On August 26, 2015 at Winnipeg, MB, Jose, beloved husband, father, and grandfather passed away at the age of 81 years. Besides his wife Amelia Mendes, he is survived by daughter Maria (Dean), sons Manuel, Antonio (Elma), Albano (Danielle), and grandchildren Myles, Kyle, Alana, Mario, Emila, Celina, Luke, and Jack. He also leaves to mourn his brother Manuel Ledo (Maria dos Anjos), a brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by son, Jose (Joe) Mendes and his first wife Maria Jose. Jose was born on September 29, 1933 in Sao Miguel, Azores. At an early age he worked the family farm tending to the animals. This developed his strong work ethic and love of animals. He immigrated to Canada in 1956, eventually joining the Canadian National Railway for a career that spanned more than 30 years. He enjoyed spending time at his cottage at Winnipeg Beach with family and friends where he spent his last days. He also liked gardening and had a special talent for grafting fruit trees, that produced multi-colored blooms in the spring. He will be remembered for his outgoing personality with a mischievous sense of humour. Always one to greet you with a warm smile and a good joke, he enjoyed a laugh or playing a practical joke on his friends and family. He had a deep devotion to church which he lived through his faith. He was a founding member of the Knights of Columbus Council 11000 Saint Condestavel, and also an active member of the Legion of Mary at Immaculate Conception Parish. Family was always a great source of pride and focus for Jose. He recently celebrated his 50th wedding anniversary with his wife Amelia. Jose always showed a keen interest in his grandchildren and loved to tell them stories of his childhood in the Azores. The family would like to thank family and friends for their support. Prayers will be Sunday, August 30 at 8:00 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Parish, 181 Austin St. North. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, August 31 at 10:00 a.m. also at the Church with Father Tiago officiating. Interment will follow in Holy Family Cemetery. If friends so desire, donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association or Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba.