Wanderlei Barboza de Oliveira

Wanderlei Barboza De Oliveira, known to his loved ones as Cabetione, passed away on January 10, 2024, at the age of 73 in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. Born on June 1, 1950, to the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, he lived a life marked by devotion to family, faith, and service.

Wanderlei's charismatic and outgoing personality made him a beloved figure in his community. His humor and ability to make people laugh brightened even the darkest of moments. Whether it was through his storytelling or his playful nature, Wanderlei had a knack for bringing joy to those around him, even if the story was a little farfetched... One of those stories is when dove into the ocean wearing nothing but a speedo and carrying a knife, to save a friends life, who nearly drowned, by cutting him free of seaweed.

His journey from the Força Aérea Brasileira (Brazilian Air Force) to Varig (Latin Americas largest operator of the Boeing 747), a true craftsman as an aircraft mechanic, and onto the United States reflected his courage and tireless work ethic. In America, he became a stalwart figure within the Chino Valley Unified School District, where he was endearingly known as "Oliver," and his saxophone melodies were a beloved addition to school assemblies.

His musical passions were not confined to the saxophone or his workplace; they extended to bands where he was affectionately nicknamed "Bolacha" by his fellow musicians in Brazil. His devotion to his faith was expressed through his role as a Pastor within the Assemblies of God, where he ministered through both word and song. Wanderlei touched countless lives, bringing people to Christ.

Above all Wanderlei's accomplishments, his family will forever be indebted and grateful for the tireless sacrifices he made to bring them to the United States of America. It was because of his courage and vision that his family will enjoy the vast opportunities for generations to come.

Wanderlei's memory will be cherished as a symphony of hard work, laughter, and faith that enriched the lives of all who knew him. His departure leaves our world a little quieter but the heavens a bit brighter.

Wanderlei's life will be honored in a private ceremony on January 27th. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, reflecting his generous spirit and lifelong commitment to helping others.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of many years, Martides De Oliveira, and his cherished children: Wanderson De Oliveira, Viviane Coley, and Bruno De Oliveira. His legacy continues through his adored grandchildren Lukas, Amanda, Luiza, Gabriel, Amos, Ezekiel, and Zamirah. He also leaves a void in the lives of his siblings Josoe, Vanderleia, Vanda, Jeremias, Jonas, and Isaias. Wanderlei joins in eternal rest his late parents, Francisco De Oliveira and Luiza De Lima De Oliveira, and his siblings Pedro, Jose and Safira.