Obituary

In Loving Memory of Jose do Rosario Serro (Zé Maria) 1938 – May 17, 2025 With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Jose do Rosario Serro, affectionately known as Zé Maria, on May 17, 2025, at the age of 86. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and cherished friend, Jose passed peacefully, surrounded by love. Born in the village of Alcaria Cova, Estoi, in the Algarve region of Portugal, Jose carried the spirit of his homeland with him to Toronto, where he built a life rooted in family, hard work, and community. He is survived by his loving wife Teresa, his daughters Emma and Monica, his son-in-law Victor Anceriz, and his adored granddaughters Isabella and Kaylee, who were the pride and joy of his life. He is also fondly remembered by many beloved family members in Portugal. Jose is now reunited in eternal peace with his late son-in-law Rui Montezo, his parents, siblings, mother-in-law, and brother-in-law — all of whom he missed dearly and held close to his heart throughout his life. A hardworking man, Jose spent his career as a laborer in construction, always striving to provide a better life for his family. But beyond his work, he lived with purpose and passion. He loved the outdoors, especially hunting, and took great joy in hosting dinners and filling his home with laughter, stories, and warmth. He will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, strength, and the way he brought people together. To be in Jose’s presence was to feel welcomed, valued, and loved. A service will be held to honor his memory. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to celebrate Jose’s life in the way he lived his own — by gathering with loved ones, sharing a meal, and treasuring every moment together. Forever in our hearts, Jose’s legacy lives on in the love he gave, the values he instilled, and the memories we will cherish always.

Em Memória de Jose do Rosario Serro (Zé Maria) 1938 – 17 de maio de 2025 É com profundo pesar que anunciamos o falecimento de Jose do Rosario Serro, carinhosamente conhecido como Zé Maria, no dia 17 de maio de 2025, aos 86 anos de idade. Esposo, pai, avô e amigo dedicado, Jose partiu em paz, rodeado de amor. Nascido na aldeia de Alcaria Cova, Estoi, na região do Algarve, Portugal, Jose trouxe consigo o espírito da sua terra natal para Toronto, onde construiu uma vida baseada na família, no trabalho árduo e nos laços de amizade. Deixa a esposa Teresa, as filhas Emma e Mónica, o genro Victor Anceriz e as netas muito amadas Isabella e Kaylee, que foram a luz da sua vida. É também lembrado com carinho por muitos familiares queridos em Portugal. Jose reencontra agora, em paz eterna, o seu saudoso genro Rui Montezo, os seus pais, irmãos, irmã, sogra e cunhado — todos profundamente amados e sempre presentes no seu coração. Homem trabalhador, dedicou a sua vida à construção civil, sempre com o objetivo de oferecer melhores condições à sua família. Fora do trabalho, Jose vivia com paixão e alegria. Amava a natureza, especialmente a caça, e tinha enorme prazer em reunir a família e os amigos à volta da mesa, com boa comida, histórias e muitas gargalhadas. Será sempre lembrado pela sua bondade, generosidade, força e pela forma calorosa como acolhia todos ao seu redor. Estar com o Jose era sentir-se em casa — acolhido, respeitado e amado. A cerimónia fúnebre será aberta a todos os que desejem prestar a sua homenagem e despedida. A família convida todos a juntar-se para celebrar a vida de Jose. Em vez de flores, poderão honrar a sua memória reunindo-se com os vossos entes queridos, partilhando uma refeição e valorizando cada momento juntos — como ele tão bem fazia. Para sempre nos nossos corações, o legado de Jose viverá no amor que deu, nos valores que transmitiu e nas memórias que deixará eternamente connosco.

Visitation

Date
May 23, 2025
Location
Cardinal Funeral Home Bathurst
Time
04:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Service

Date
May 24, 2025
Location
St. Agnes Roman Catholic Church
Time
09:30 AM

Cremation

Date
 
Location
Evergreen Crematorium
Time
 

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May 23, 2025
Sofia Montezo
We’re heartbroken for your loss. Your father was such a special person and we’ll always cherish the memories we shared together. Lots of love from Sofia, Maria de Jesus e Jorge Montezo.
May 22, 2025
Flora Fragala
Emma, Teresa, Monica, Isabella, Kaylee Please accept our deepest condolences. We are keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. Please know that I am here for you always.
May 21, 2025
Kaylee
Hi avô Zé I love u so much u are the best grandfather ever I will always remember u and love you. Love u so much from your menina Kaylinha ❤️
May 21, 2025
Kaylee
Hi avô Zé I love u so much u are the best grandfather ever I will always remember u and love u love u your menina Kaylinha
May 21, 2025
Isabella
I miss you and I love you avo Ze ❤️❤️
May 21, 2025
Emma
I love you daddy