Obituary

Joao Da Ponte Benevides (April 30, 1927 – August 17, 2022) passed away peacefully at the age of 95 at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto with his family by his side. He was the loving husband of the late Maria Jose Benevides, who passed away in 2014.  He is survived by his sons John (the late Odete), the late Afonso, Manuel (Linda), daughter Maria Jose, and grandchildren Paul (Karen), Emanuel (Andrea), Ricardo (Afrin), Nicole (Steve), Danielle (Danny) and great grandchildren Andrew, Eric, Monica, Rui, Dani, Victoria, Cristian, and Sophia. He will also be dearly missed by his nieces and nephews, as well as the numerous friends and neighbours he gained during his life.

 

Joao was born in Arrifes, São Miguel. Joao and his beloved late sister Isabel lost both parents as very young children.  He was a very hard worker from a very young age.  Joao married the love of his life, Maria Jose. At the age of 30, he immigrated to Canada, with his late brother in law, Manuel. After 8 years, he sponsored his wife and children to join him in Canada, where he had established a home for them. He adored his family and was loved by his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren immensely, and was proud of all of their accomplishments.

Throughout his life, Joao was happiest when surrounded by family and friends. He was an avid reader with a curious mind. He loved to write poetry and tell jokes and had an infectious laugh and a smile that warmed our hearts. He was always available to help others in any way he could.  Although we are deeply saddened by his passing, the memories he has created and everyone he charmed along the way will live on as a testament to a life well lived.

 

The family would like to express its gratitude to all of the staff at Mount Sinai Hospital 12th floor South, general internal medicine, the palliative care team, the doctors, nursing staff, social workers and PSW’s for their dedication and compassion in taking care of Joao. As expressions of sympathy, and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mount Sinai and/or West Neighbourhood House.

 

Visitation

Date
August 21, 2022
Location
366 Bathurst Street
Time
02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Memo

Mr. Benevides family have requested that masks will be worn while in the visiting suite.

Date
August 21, 2022
Location
366 Bathurst Street
Time
06:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Memo

Mr. Benevides family request masks to be worn while in the visiting suite

Service

Date
August 22, 2022
Location
St. Mary's Church
Time
09:45 AM

Entombment

Date
August 22, 2022
Location
Assumption Cemetery
Time
11:30 AM
Memo

Arrival time at cemetery is approximated.

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August 20, 2022
Família Cadete
Dear Maria and John, We are quite saddened by your loss. Please accept our deepest condolences.
August 20, 2022
Suzette Arruda-Santos
Our deepest condolences to the entire family from the Santos and Pereira Arruda family. Sending our prayers and hoping you find comfort in treasured memories. What a beautiful tribute/obituary of a man that clearly lived a very full life in the company of an adoring family. One of my favourite COVID memories is you cutting your dad’s hair, Maria. It filled my heart as my dad also got home haircuts during that time. Priceless and simple moments that fill our hearts. I’m so sorry that we aren’t there to attend the funeral. Sending love and prayers. ♥️ Suzette and family.
August 20, 2022
Afonso J Duarte
My deepest condolences to my cousins and family. He was he is a special uncle to me who I respect and love a lot he’s in my heart forever. To my cousins John Many & Maria a Big hug with love ❤️❤️
August 20, 2022
Almerinda Amaral
Our deepest condolences to the Benevides family. I have very fond memories of him and his kindness and gentleness. He remains forever in our hearts. May he rest in eternal peace. With love, Almerinda Amaral, Onofrio Rago & Family 💕
August 19, 2022
Noemia
My deepest condolences to the Benevides family. Especially to my dear friend Maria who has shared so many stories about her father. Know that the memories keep on giving. Big hug