Mario Rodrigues, 82, of New Bedford died Wednesday, January 4, 2017 at Our Lady's Haven after a brief illness. He was the husband of Fay P. (Cathcart) Rodrigues.
Born in New Bedford, the son of the late Carlos and Maria (Rodrigues) Rodrigues, he lived there all of his life. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War.
He was the owner of Mario's Barbershop, at several locations in New Bedford, for many years until his retirement.
Mario was a unique athlete; he was a professional soccer player in the American league from 1959-63 and played in 11 international games, including Manchester United, Portugal's Benfica and the German Hein Oval. He was Bristol County Table Tennis Champion and 3 time New Bedford Champion.
He was a long time member of the N.B. Country Club and won the four ball tournament multiple times, including at Allendale CC. He also enjoyed skiing.
Survivors include his daughter, Christine Sylvia and her husband Steven of Carver; two grandchildren, Cameron and Aaron Sylvia; two step-children, Thomas Barbero and Gina Sylvia; and five step-grandchildren, Eryn, Ethan, Timothy, Brittney, and Callie.
He was predeceased by his siblings, Dolores Giammalvo and Charles Rodrigues; his step-son, Michael Barbero; and his step-grandson, Adam Barbero.
Mario enjoyed life with his family and friends, he will be truly missed.
His Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday at 11 AM at Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church. Burial will follow in Riverside Cemetery, Fairhaven. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 8:30-10:30 AM at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Compassionate Care Hospice, 174 Dean St., Suite B, Taunton, MA, 02780. For directions and guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.