Bernard “”Sonny” Viera, age 79 of Berkley and also of Brooksville, Fl., passed away on February 9, 2017.
He was the husband of the late Bernice N. (Berg) Viera who passed away in 2006. Sonny was born in Fall River, a son of the late Joseph and Marion (Smith) Vera. He is survived by his loving children, Sherry J Navarro (and husband Rick Navarro) and son Joseph C Viera (and wife Robyn Vailliant). He is the proud grandfather of Justin, Mackenzie, Jaida, Meghan, Jo-Jo and Brooke. He is also survived by his loving companion Sheila Goddard who brought the light back into his eyes for a loving six years. He is also survived by his brother Richard Viera, and was also the brother of the late Shirley Lawrence.
Before retirement , Sonny was a truck driver for over 47 years. He was a member of the Teamsters Union. He worked for Fernandes Supermarket . He was self-employed and owned his own ten wheeler dump truck. He also worked at Paul A. Dever State School. He ended his truck driving career at Ferreira and Sons.
Sonny was also a craftsman, he remodeled homes. His craft was making “Something Special in Wood’. He took on the craft his father created by using fire and a skill saw. He was known for uniquely made frames around town.
Sonny loved sports. He loved watching all the Boston Teams. He belonged to a bowling league for many years. He also played softball for years at Hartshorn Field. His passion was coaching softball. Whether it be coaching grown men or young girls on the field, it did not matter. He was and advocate for girls softball. He was instrumental in forming Taunton Girls Senior League on North Walker Street so older girls could continue to play the sport they loved.
Sonny was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend. His joy in life was watching his children and grandchildren grow up. His greatest joy was watching his grandchildren play their sports, from little league baseball to Taunton High School Softball and College softball. Our memories are limitless with him. The most important thing to remember about Sonny was his commitment to his family. He was a provider and a protector to us all.
Sonny’s funeral will be held on Wednesday, February 15, 2017 at 8:45 am from the Silva Funeral Home 80 Broadway (at Saint Mary’s Square) in Taunton, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 am in Annunciation of the Lord Church First St, Taunton.
Interment will follow in Saint Joseph Cemetery.
Visiting hours will be on Tuesday, February 14th from 4 to 7pm.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in Sonny’s memory made to; Hope Hospice & Palliative Care 1085 N. Main St. Providence, RI 02904, would be deeply appreciated.
For expressions of sympathy, or to sign an online guestbook, visit www.silvafuneralhome.com