José António Garcia dos Reis

José António was born in Lomba das Lages, on the island of Flores in the Azores, Portugal. He was predeceased by his parents António Joaquim dos Reis Júnior and Georgina de Freitas Garcia dos Reis, and siblings, Maria Teresa Estacio and Pedro Reis. He is survived by his wife of almost 50 years, Maria Isabel, and children, Allen, Cynthia (Kevin), and Rafael (Nicole) and grandchildren, Noah, Owen, Emmett, and Gabriela.

José António immigrated to Canada in 1972 and returned to Portugal in 1975 to marry Maria Isabel and bring her back to Canada to start their lives together. They originally took up residence in New Westminster but ended up purchasing a new home in Richmond in 1978, which is still the family home today. José António worked at a number of jobs prior to finishing his long-time career at Conforce Structures where he worked in pre-cast concrete.

His favourite past times were fishing, tending to his garden and fruit trees, watching Benfica and the Canucks, and spending time with his grandchildren. He was also a proud Director and volunteer of the Portuguese Marching Band of Vancouver for many years, and always talked about his cherished times with the band.

José António was very hard working and made a very comfortable life for his family from his modest upbringing. Travel was also a joy that he shared with his family and there were many family trips back to the Azores, visiting family in the Eastern USA, and California, and road trips throughout B.C.

We would like to extend our appreciation to the staff at both Richmond Hospital and Richmond Salvation Army Rotary Hospice House for their time and dedication to helping care for José António over the past few weeks.

Please consider donating to the Richmond Salvation Army Rotary Hospice House, in lieu of flowers.