Maria Antonia Queiroz da Luz

It is with great sadness that we share in the passing of our beloved mother and grandmother Maria da Luz who passed away peacefully on October 20th at the age of 92 years old.

Maria was born on May 19, 1934, in Almeirim, Portugal. She will be lovingly remembered by her children: Antonio (Margarita), Sergio (Rita); grandchildren David (Laura), Steven (Maria), Desmond (Courtney) and Declan; and great grandchildren, Sofia, Olivia, Gia and Lennon. Maria was predeceased by her husband Jose da Luz; her parents Emilia and Antonio Queiroz; and brother and sister-in-law Manuel and Teresa Queiroz.

In 1952, Maria’s family decided to move from the town of Almeirim to Lisbon, Portugal. Maria was a devoted  Evangelical Christian and while attending church she met Jose da Luz and they married in 1958.

In 1965, her family moved to Brazil and then in 1971, they relocated and settled in Vancouver, BC. Maria was employed as a caretaker at Vancouver’s downtown Eaton’s Department store for 16 years, until her retirement.

Maria had a talent and passion for crocheting. She made beautiful doilies, tablecloths, and bedspreads, often gifting many handmade pieces to others. Maria was also a gifted seamstress. Her inspiration had developed from childhood as she watched, learned, and assisted her mother and aunt design and sew men’s tailored suits and women’s dresses. Maria enjoyed singing in the church choir, camping with her family but above all, she loved being surrounded by her children and grandchildren.

To all the wonderful staff at St. Michael’s Hospice, thank you for not only caring for Maria, but also for supporting our family through this difficult time. We will always be grateful for the comfort and dignity you gave Maria during her final days.

She will be deeply missed and cherished by the family she loved.

A private celebration of life will be held to honour her memory. In lieu of flowers, a donation in memory may be made to: Crohn’s and Colitis Canada.