Joseph M. Bonanca

He was born in Ponta Delgada, in the Azores, but went on to live a classically American life. He immigrated to Fall River, MA as a young boy and graduated from BMC Durfee High School. Shortly after receiving his diploma, he was drafted into the US Marine Corps and was sent to Vietnam. As a machine gunner deployed in the countryside around Da Nang, his expected life span in a fire fight could be counted in seconds. But he survived the hardships of war and returned to Fall River after being honorably discharged.

A few days after coming home he met Madeline Saraiva, who would be his wife of 51 years. With their son, Jason, they later moved to Somerset, MA, and eventually to Swansea, MA where they built the home he would live in for nearly four decades.

He enjoyed a highly successful career at St. Michael’s Fall River Federal Credit Union, where he worked for over 40 years. Beginning as a teller, he eventually rose to become the President and CEO of the credit union, guiding the institution through decades of expansion. He was proud to have earned his BA from the University of Massachusetts even while working full time. He was much loved by his employees, as well as by the patrons and directors of the credit union.

In retirement he took up golf with gusto and was justifiably proud of his acumen on the links. He loved to play with his friends and was eager to put a golf club in the hands of his son and grandchildren – or anyone who would accept.

He was a man of principle and faith. He loved to laugh, and was widely appreciated for a fun loving spirit with friends.

He is survived by his wife and son, grandchildren David and Lilah, as well as sisters Cidalia and Gizelia, and brother Etelvino.

Private arrangements are in the care of the Waring-Sullivan Home at Birchcrest in Swansea, MA.