Mr. Victor Heleno

Obituary

After a long battle with dementia, Victor Heleno died peacefully, at home, on Friday, September 29, 2023. He will be forever remembered with love. He was 89. A devoted husband and father, Victor will be greatly missed by his wife of 61 years, Dalia; and son Paul (Tammy Heleno) and daughter Angela (Carmo Da Silva). He was a proud grandfather to Brody, Brayden, Julia and Elliot, and they will always remember their beloved Avô. He is survived by his sister, Maria Lena Grilo (Vidaul Grilo). 

Born in Famoes, Bombarral, Portugal, Victor worked as a ticket collector for the public transit system in Torres Vedras, Portugal. After marrying the love of his life in 1962, they welcomed their first child Paul Jorge a year later. Seeking a better life, they immigrated to Canada in 1966. They settled in Toronto and worked hard to create a loving and thriving environment for their immediate and extended family. Victor's enduring belief in the importance of family, and the integrity of hard work formed his life and actions. He lived those values and fulfilled his dreams. 

He was a proud Canadian first, who appreciated all the opportunities that this country allowed him. During his earlier years of retirement, Victor looked forward to  traveling to his homeland every summer, sometimes twice a year. He also loved his wine. He would press a careful selection of grapes and share his home made wine with friends and family. Dalia and Victor also belonged to the Peniche Community Club of Toronto, where they would gather with friends on a Saturday night and dance the night away. A faithful Sporting Clube de Portugal fan, he would enjoy listening to the live soccer broadcasts from across the ocean.  

In his later retirement years, Victor was very active in his local parish. He served as the President of A Irmandade da Nossa Senhora de Fatima, at St. Anthony’s Church for many years. He worked tirelessly with Dalia and fellow members to organize events to raise funds for various local and international charities. He was also a member of the church choir and lector.

Victor was dedicated to his family, always there to help, and always generous. Throughout much of his life, Victor was austere and emotionally reserved, a man of few words. When he became a grandfather, he embraced the role, he was a softie to his grandkids, often watching his eldest grandsons play hockey and spoiling them. 

Victor battled dementia in the last 10 years of his life. Dalia, Paul and Angela are forever grateful to his caregiver and friend Ernesto who provided the most compassionate and excellent care, which enabled Dalia and loved ones to care for him at home. Victor’s life was a testament to his enduring love for family, and his profound sense of responsibility. He died as he lived, with courage and on his own terms. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to the Alzeiherms’ Society of Toronto. 

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