Obituary
Surrounded by his family, João Gil de Freitas Abreu passed away peacefully on October 8, 2022 at the age of 81. He will be forever missed by his loving wife, Olivia, and cherished by his children, Denny, Nelson (Sandra), Sonia (Kevin) and Jason (Linda). Proud grandfather to Tyler, Cristiano and Norah, who brought him so much joy and who he loved with all his heart.
In 1958, at the age of 17, João immigrated to Canada from the town of Caniço, Madeira Portugal to be close to family and start a new life. In 1968 he married his beautiful wife, Olivia, and together they raised four children and created a life filled with love. As a young entrepreneur, in 1970 he started his own business, Abreu Refrigeration Ltd., where he provided employment to young professionals and proudly served the businesses in his community for 52 years. He lived his life by example and instilled values of compassion, hard-work and celebration.
A pioneer in the Canadian Madeirense community and a friend to all, João is remembered for his leadership, dedication and kindness in everything and everyone he touched. Known in the community as Sr. João Abreu, he was most loved by those who knew him as Tio Gil, Pai and querido marido. He is remembered by his family for his unconditional love and support, and for empowering us to live fully, knowing he was always there to support us.
João is rejoined in heaven with his parents, Joaquim and Virgina Abreu, and siblings Veronica Quintal, Zita Ferreira, Jorge Abreu, Humberto Abreu, Agostinha de Nobrega, and Sidonio Abreu. He will be held dear in the hearts of his family and many friends.
Rest in peace, Pai. We will keep your beautiful memory alive, and we will continue to work at making you proud. We love you so much.
In Loving Memory of our beloved João, donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or to the St. Anthony Roman Catholic Church either directly at the church or through the Archdiocese of Toronto.
Visitation
October 12, 2022
Bathurst Chapel
04:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Service
October 13, 2022
St. Anthony Roman Catholic Church
09:30 AM
Please be mindful to allow space for the funeral procession to park in front of the church
Burial
October 13, 2022
Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery
11:30 AM
Arrival time is estimated and is subject to change without notice due to changing weather and road conditions.