Estevao Vieira Mendonca

Estevao Vieira Mendonca known affectionately as Steve, passed away on Sunday, November 24, 2024, at the age of 83, in Tillsonburg, Ontario at Tillsonburg Memorial Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 10, 1941, in Furnas, Sao Miguel, Azores, to Angelo and Maria Jose Mendonca where he grew up along with his 5 brothers and sisters: Joe, Maria, Manny, Isabel and Angelo.

Steve is survived by his loving wife of 60 years Margaret Mendonsa; his children, Robert Mendonsa, Kristine Mendonsa, Deborah Seguin and loving son-in-law Jon Seguin; and his grandchildren, Michael Healey, Ty Mendonsa, Cristian Healey, Noah Seguin and Zoe Seguin; and his great grandchildren Cora Healey and Bo Healey. His commitment to his family was evident in every aspect of his life, always putting their needs above his own. He lived a life marked by dedication to his work and his family.

He came to Canada at the young age of 16 and worked tirelessly in farmer’s fields in Woodstock, sometimes from dusk till dawn hoping to make a life for himself in his new home. He then moved to Toronto and worked different jobs always working hard to build his future in Canada. It was there that he met the love of his life Margaret, and it was love at first sight. They married and started a life in Guelph with their three children, who grew up never wanting for anything. They took fabulous family vacations together and created life memories that they would cherish forever. It was after many years working in factories that a small business idea was hatched in their home basement. Making sweetbread to sell, that quickly evolved into a thriving family business, which they moved to Brampton along with the family. The business was a huge success and became a fixture in the Brampton Portuguese community. After retiring they built their dream home in Furnas where they would spend summers. It was there that Steve was his happiest and he was able to create his paradise filled with gardens that were the envy of all.

Steve’s kind heart and giving nature will forever be etched in the hearts of those who encountered him. While we mourn the loss of such a wonderful and loving soul, we find comfort in knowing that he is at peace now, forever watching over us with a love and guidance that will never fade.

The family will receive their friends at the Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home, Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon St., Guelph on Thursday November 28, 2024 from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm and Friday November 29, 2024 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. The ceremony will be held in the chapel at 2 pm. A reception will follow the service in the funeral home Fellowship Lounge.

Donations can be made in his honour to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada. Donation cards are available at the funeral home or online at www.gilbertmacintyreandson.com