Born in New Bedford, son of the late Manuel and Hilda (Camara) Cabral. David was a longtime resident of Dartmouth. David and Cheryl (Grimes) Cabral were married for over 25 years raising their children in the town he grew up in. He was a graduate of Dartmouth High School and “played ball” (basketball) there. David had many friends from school. They maintained their connection for many years playing softball as they and their families enjoyed many summers together. David was very involved in coaching youth sports (even prior to his own children playing). He loved to coach and loved helping where he could. He held those memories dear in his heart.
David started his career at Maritime Terminal International Inc. when he was 17 years old. He was quickly called to serve and became shop steward for many years. There he made many lifelong friends including his brother George, “The Maritime Crew”. Working as a proud Teamster representing his fellow workers and friends, he later ran for office. In the early 90’s he was voted into office as Secretary Treasurer - Business Agent for Teamsters Local 59. Over his tenure with the Teamsters, he proudly and diligently served as a shop steward, the Secretary Treasurer - Business Agent, and was a member of the Board of Trustee’s for Health and Welfare Local 59 and served in the Joint Council of Southern New England. He was very involved with the Teamsters throughout his life and had a strong union presence when helping his union brothers and sisters.
David loved his family. His children and grandchildren were his world. He was at every sporting event, loved to just “play” with his two children growing up and he was the G-Pa who brought his grandkids special snacks and threw them a couple dollars. He was known as Grandpa Dave to many. David had a deep loving bond with his siblings. He loved playing games and cards with them, that was how he spent his time after retiring. His brother, George, was his best friend, only being 11 months older than him, they shared their life together, from being boys growing up on the farm, being teenagers starting their careers at Maritime Terminal, having children the same age, raising their families together, and being David’s most trusted friend. Family was extremely important to him. He enjoyed talking about politics, loved gardening, and was an avid sports fan.
He is survived by his children, Kelley L. Cabral-Mosher and her husband John of New Bedford and Benjamin David Cabral and his wife Stephanie of Fairhaven; his siblings, Constance Machado, Gilbert, George, Steve, and Richard; six grandchildren, Benjamin David Jr., Sean Kelly, Mason David, Samuel David, Serenity Grey and Davison Benjamin; two great-grandchildren, Ava Rose and Benjamin David III; and many godchildren, nieces and nephews. He was pre-deceased by his siblings, Maria Delores, Henrique, Raymond and Maria.
A mass will be held in David’s name with a gathering to follow to celebrate his life – date to be determined. Please feel free to share a note and/or photo of your memories of David. The family would be honored to receive them. Please send them to Kelley L. Cabral-Mosher (daughter of David) & Benjamin David Cabral Sr. (son of David) C/O Dartmouth Funeral Home, 230 Russells Mills Road, Dartmouth, MA 02748.
Arrangements are in the care of the Waring-Sullivan Home at Dartmouth, 230 Russells Mills Road, Dartmouth, MA 02748. Contributions in David’s Honor may be made to: Sister Rose House or Grace House, c/o Catholic Social Services, 1600 Bay St., Fall River, MA 02724. To leave a note of condolence: www.waring-sullivan .com
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