Captain Rafael Azevedo, 84, of New Bedford died January 19, 2011 at St. Luke's Hospital after a brief illness.
He was the husband of Mary (DaLomba) Azevedo.
Born in Brava, Cape Verde, the son of the late Jose and Diana (Anahory) Azevedo, he moved to New Bedford Christmas Day 1955.
He was a member of the International Church of the Nazarene.
Rafael will always be remembered as the patriarch of the Azevedo family. A strong and gentle leader, he was a self taught violinist and guitarist. Rafael's love of the sea was profound. He enjoyed boating, sailing and being close to the ocean. His unconditional neverending love spread to his loving wife, children, family and friends. He enjoyed the company of his dog Vedo. Rafael will be greatly missed.
Survivors include 6 children, Elizabeth Flowers, Sarah Gonsalves, Sandra Cabral, Carol Monteiro, Manuel Azevedo and Joseph Azevedo; 2 brothers, Jose Azevedo and Americo Araujo; 3 sisters, Maria C. Mendes, Maria Barboza, and Nilza Hughes; 12 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
He was the brother of the late Francisco Azevedo and Roberto Azevedo.
His Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, January 25th at 10 AM in the International Church of the Nazarene. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery. Visiting hours Monday, January 24th from 4-8 PM in the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford.