Obituary
Manuel Da Cunha, a devoted husband, dear friend, talented singer, passionate dancer and avid soccer enthusiast peacefully passed away surrounded by family at age 85 on December 17, 2023 in Toronto, Ontario.
He is survived by his loving wife Maria De Fatima Da Cunha, Brother Albano Da Cunha, Sister-in-laws Conceicao Lima, Virginia Pacheco (Eduardo), Eulalia Brinco, Roberta Arruda, Brother-in-laws Francisco Arruda (Antonia), his Godchildren Debbie Bettencourt (Marcio), Valdemar Silva (Alma), Mario Arruda (Gina), Elizabeth Arruda (Linda), Danny Arruda (Mirella), Paula Abelha (Emanuel), Amelia Sherbanowski (Kevin), and Mark Pacheco (Maria),
Manuel was preceded in death by his parents Luis and Maria Da Cunha, both his sisters Silvina Arruda, and Maria Silva, and his brothers-in-law Humberto Arruda, Manuel Silva, Jose Arruda, Raulino Brinco, and Jose Lima.
Born in Graciosa Azores, Manuel’s journey led him to Canada where he shared his love for music by singing alongside his father. Manuel found joy in spontaneously crafting folk songs, bringing life to moments with his creative spirit. His ability to thrive in the spontaneous art of songwriting added a unique and cherished dimension to the gatherings he shared with family and friends. As a dedicated member of the Graciosa Community Centre, he and his wife Maria De Fatima served as directors, creating cherished moments of dancing and laughter on countless Saturday nights.
Manuel’s passion for soccer, especially his beloved team Benfica, was evident in his dedication to listening to live games from Portugal. Many times, caught with a radio to his ear, he stayed connected to the excitement of each match, showcasing his unwavering love for the sport and his team.
Even in declining health, he found joy in his love for music and cherished moments with his beloved wife Maria De Fatima. Their time together became a source of enduring happiness, a testament to the enduring power of love and shared companionship.
Manuel Da Cunha leaves behind a legacy of music, dance and soccer, forever remembered with love and gratitude.
May he rest in eternal peace, forever surrounded by the music he loved.
Visitation
December 21, 2023
Cardinal Funeral Homes - Bathurst Chapel
04:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Parking is very limited, please carpool or take public transit if possible
Service
December 22, 2023
St. Helen's Parish
10:00 AM
Parking at front of the funeral home is reserved for funeral home cars
Entombment
December 22, 2023
Prospect Cemetery - Last Supper Mausoleum
11:30 AM
Arrival time is estimated. Time subject to change due to changing weather and road conditions