Francisco M. Gonçalves, 75, of New Bedford died Saturday December 27, 2014 suddenly at St. Luke's Hospital. He was the husband of Maria Elcy (Spinola) Gonçalves; they had been married for 50 years.
Born in Brava, Cape Verde, the son of the late Maria Amelia Duarte and Miguel Gonçalves, he lived in Brava for many years before moving to New Bedford in 2005.
Mr. Gonçalves was formerly employed as a seaman on oil tankers out of England. He also was a store owner in Brava, which was his passion in life.
He enjoyed music and played in a band. He was very friendly and helpful to others.
Survivors include his wife, Elcy; five daughters, Fatima DePina, Candida Lopes, Dinora Lopes, Mildrity Gonçalves, and Auzenda Gonçalves; his siblings, Candida Gonçalves, Cesar Duarte, Amelia Duarte, Manuel DeBarros, and Margarida Gonçalves; ten grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews, including Esmeraldo Duarte whom he raised like a son.
His Funeral will be held on Saturday at 9 AM from the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, followed by his Funeral Mass at St. Lawrence Church at 10 AM. Burial will be in Rural Cemetery. Visiting hours will be on Friday from 4-8 PM. For directions and guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.