In Loving Memory of Serafim Costa Melo

“My Father was there for my first breath, and I was there for his last”.

With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved pai, avô, and bisavô at the age of 92. He passed away surrounded by those he loved as he took his last breath.

He is survived by his children, Elisabete (Drew), Manuel, Maria (David), Anna (Ernesto), grandchildren whom he treasured dearly, Matthew (Stephanie), Andria (Filip), and great-grandchildren; Sophie, Claire, Charles, Zoey, Luciana, and Luke.

He was predeceased by his wife, Conceição Sousa Melo, his parents Serafina Rodriques and Manuel Costa Melo, his sisters Maria das Neves Martins and Julia Martins, and brothers Manuel Melo and Antonio Melo.

Dad was the ultimate example of a life dedicated to family and faith. He was a proud father, beloved grandfather, great-grandfather, and a true friend to many. He was known for his strength, honesty, and generosity—always ready to lend a hand, offer advice, share a laugh, or a glass of wine. He was a man of integrity with a strong work ethic. He went above and beyond both at work and for his family and friends.

Serafim was born in Arrifes, São Miguel, Azores, and came to Canada in 1956 in pursuit of a better life. After a work injury, he transferred to Vancouver for rehab and stayed. In 1962, he was married, and in 1963, his wife and daughter joined him in Canada.

He was a loving husband to our mom for 59 years and a generous, helpful father and grandfather who always gave of himself to support his children, grandchildren, and numerous friends and relatives. If anyone was ever in need, he was there to lend a hand.

He found joy in life’s simple pleasures: gardening, wine making, spending summer days smelt fishing, and visiting family and friends from Fort Fraser, B.C. to Arrifes, Sao Miguel. He also cherished being part of the Portuguese Community, always volunteering at church events and connecting with friends.

His influence on his family will never be forgotten. He taught his children the value of hard work, love, and kindness. They will carry his memory and the lessons he shared always.

The family will miss his quiet strength, his warm smile, and the way he made them feel loved and supported no matter what. “Though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in knowing he will always be with us: in our memories, in values he passed down, and in the love we continue to share as a family”.

The family would like to thank the caregivers and staff at Mount St. Joseph Hospital Extended Care Unit, 2nd floor - Bamboo Section, for all their compassion and care, making his stay in long-term care more enjoyable.

Viewing will be held at Our Lady of Fatima Portuguese Parish, 1423 East 13th Avenue, Vancouver, on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, from 9:30 -10:00 a.m., followed by Prayers from 10:00 -10:30 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial to follow and will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Burial will take place at Mountain View Cemetery, Vancouver, following the Service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Our Lady of Fatima, Portuguese Parish, either online via their website or by calling the office directly.