Antonio Goncalves Fernandes

Antonio Goncalves Fernandes, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on October 22, 2024, in Union, surrounded by his loving family. Born on March 22,1933, in Gondomil, Valenca, Portugal, he was the cherished son of Avelino Fernandes and Diolinda Goncalves.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Maria Pedreira Fernandes; his daughters, Maria Do Carmo Cunha and Fernanda Fernandes-Naloev; his sons-in-laws, Manuel Carlos Cunha and Jandar Naloev; and his cherished grandchildren, Mark Cunha and Ariana Cunha Barbosa, along with their spouses, Nicole Cunha and Dylan Barbosa.

Antonio proudly served for two years in the Military of Portugal at the Viana Detachment before marrying his beloved wife, Maria Pedreira, in 1957. Their marriage blossomed into a beautiful partnership that was filled with love, laughter, and the joys of family. Together, they welcomed two daughters, Maria Do Carmo and Fernanda, whom they raised with deep affection.In 1969, seeking new opportunities, Antonio moved to the United States, where he worked as a laborer for Local 472 until his retirement in 1992. Retirement allowed him to fulfill his dream of returning to Portugal, where he and Maria enjoyed their golden years, traveling between both countries and creating cherished memories with family, especially their grandchildren Mark and Ariana.

Antonio found great joy in nurturing his garden and caring for his grapevines, which became a testament to his love for the land and the simple pleasures of life. He was a man of kindness and wisdom, whose laughter and warmth will be deeply missed by all who knew him.His legacy of love, resilience, and devotion to family will live on, cherished by all who were fortunate to know him. Antonio’s spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of his family, who will carry his memory forward with love and gratitude for generations to come.

Visitation for Antonio will be held Friday, October 25, 2024 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at McCracken Funeral Home, 1500 Morris Ave, Union, NJ 07083.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend a funeral on Saturday, October 26, 2024, 8:00 am from the funeral home. Funeral mass to take place in Our Lady of Fatima Roman Catholic Church, 403 Spring St, Elizabeth. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.