MARIA AMERICA FERREIRA FERNANDES CORTEZ

December 27, 1952 – May 08, 2026

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Wife, Mother and Grandmother Maria America on Friday, May 08, 2026 at age 73.  She passed away with family at her side after battling cancer. Maria America was predeceased by her beloved parents Diamantino and Preciosa Fernandes and her granddaughter Maria Preciosa. Maria America was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, who will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 52 years Jose Cortez, her son Robert (Debby), her daughter Tania (Alex), grandchildren Emily, Mia and Gabriella, brother Roger (Anna) and nephew Kyle and niece Chantelle.  She will be missed by family and friends both in Winnipeg and Portugal.

Maria America was born in Lisboa, Portugal. Immigrating in 1965 to Canada with her parents and brother to settle in Winnipeg. Her first job was working at Bestway Agencies.  In 1975 Maria America and Jose with her parents became owners of Portuguese Fish and Food Market.  Maria America also enjoyed helping the Portuguese Community with Immigration, doctor visits, unemployment, doing income taxes and various other tasks.  She was involved in the APM and also helping the other Portuguese Centers in Winnipeg.

Maria America was truly one of a kind.  She always worried about everyone else, and never put herself first.  Maria America was a strong lady who battled a great fight and no matter what she never complained.  She always wanted to please her family and was always happy to be around them.  Her granddaughters were her greatest joy and she loved them very much and always spoiled them.

We will continue to cherish all the memories we shared and you will continue to live in our hearts forever and always.  Descanse em Paz Mae.

In lieu of flowers please donate to Cancer Care Manitoba.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church, 181 Austin Street N with condolences and viewing an hour prior. Interment will follow in Assumption Cemetery, 3990 Portage Avenue.

The family sends a great big THANK YOU to the staff at HSC Unit GH6 for their care and support.