JOÃO (JOHN) MEDEIROS GARCIA

November 12, 1946 – December 13, 2025

On the evening of December 13th, 2025, João was unexpectedly called to his eternal rest.

João was predeceased by his parents José and Luisa Garcia; in-laws Maria Judite and José Pereira; sister-in-law Jacquie Garcia; brother-in-law Antonio Santos; infant niece Debbie Simao; great niece Alicia Anastacio; great nephew Nathan Lylyk; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Left to mourn his passing is his loving wife of 58 years, Maria Niveria; son Robert (Jen); daughter Sarah (Vince); sisters Maria Conceição (Joe) and Maria Filomena (Durval); brothers Joe (Antonella) and Gilbert (Julie); brother-in-law Fernando; many nieces, nephews and extended family.

Born and raised on the island of Sao Miguel, Azores, Portugal, Joao had a happy and love filled childhood. 

In 1967, he married his loving wife, Maria Niveria. A year later they welcomed a son and nine years later, a daughter.

In 1970, Joao, his wife, and son immigrated to Canada, settling in Winnipeg, reuniting with other family who settled here prior to them. 

Joao always had a strong work ethic. He began working at Peerless garments and Tanjay shortly after coming to Canada. 

He then pursued a career as a City of Winnipeg Transit Operator and remained there for the next 21 years until his retirement. 

Joao enjoyed everything soccer, especially watching his beloved S. L. Benfica team and discussing all the latest soccer news with his son. He was always keen on fitness and trained as a runner, completing two Manitoba Marathons with great finish times. He loved family road trips, camping, and visiting many Canadian and US destinations and national parks as well as visiting family.

Joao was a very creative person. He dreamt up many household projects and had many hobbies over the years. Together with his daughter, he created cabin signs and lawn ornaments; He was a hobbyist winemaker for years and loved to gift the wine to family, friends, and neighbours; He built a little cabin like structure in his backyard. He called it the "Casinha" (meaning little house in Portuguese). There, he and his wife would sit and enjoy the sunshine, music, and meals.

Joao loved his Tim Hortons coffee outings with his son in law Vince.  

He was a dedicated member of the Immaculate Conception parish in Winnipeg and was involved in the church choir. He absolutely loved to sing hymns. 

He was a former member of the Knights of Columbus and produced their newsletter for some time. 

Joao's family, immediate and extended, was his all. He would do anything for his close-knit family and he could always be counted on for whatever was needed. 

Joao, we will miss your voice, your smile, your laugh, your kindness, your love, and most of all, your presence.

Service Details:

Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Visitation at 11:00 am followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00 pm

Immaculate Conception Parish

181 Austin Street North, Winnipeg, MB R2W 3M7

After Mass Reception to follow at:

Cropo Funeral Chapel

1442 Main St, Winnipeg, MB

Interment:  to follow at Chapel Lawn Cemetery

4000 Portage Ave, Winnipeg, MB R3K 1W3

A big thank you to Paulo of Amber Meadows retirement community for being there for mom during that sad evening.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.

"Descanse em paz"