It is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our husband, father, and Vavô.  Nicolau (Nick), passed away peacefully with his family by his side, on Friday May 22nd at St. Boniface Hospital at the age of 82. 

Nicolau will be lovingly remembered by his wife Maria of 59 years, daughter Dulce (Mike), son Paulo (Gorette), grandchildren (Sydney, Riley, Marla, Tiago), and numerous other family members in Manitoba, British Columbia, Azores, and the USA.  He was predeceased by his parents, Antonio and Esmere, his sister Maria, and his brother Jose.

Born in Ribeira Grande, São Miguel, Azores on June 4, 1943, Nicolau met Maria, in the Azores.  After a year of courtship, they were married on March 5, 1967. 

Together they built a life rooted in love, hard work, and family. In 1969, they immigrated to Canada with their one-year-old daughter, Dulce, in search of a brighter future for their growing family.

Nicolau was a partner in the family grocery store in Sao Miguel. He continued working as a grocer at Americo’s Super Market when he first arrived in Winnipeg. Nicolau was always hard working and was loved by his employers and customers.  He retired from Avenue Meat Market on Selkirk Avenue.

Nicolau enjoyed spending time with family and was happiest when they were all together.

He loved watching his favourite soccer team, Sporting Clube de Portugal.  He spent much of his time following the Portuguese soccer league team standings and recording all the game scores in his notebook.  His favourite meal was steak and potatoes, alongside a tall glass of ice-cold Pepsi.  He could often be found maintaining the backyard and cleaning whichever beloved vehicle he owned at the time.  He also enjoyed building wooden doll houses for his grandchildren as well as collecting and modifying pens, a hobby that reflected his attention to detail and appreciation for craftsmanship.

Nicolau will be remembered for his quiet strength, generous heart, and unwavering devotion to his family. His presence, guidance, and love will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A funeral service will take place at Immaculate Conception Church, 181 Austin Street, on Friday, May 29 with prayers beginning at 11:00 a.m. and Mass beginning at 12:00 p.m. 

A reception in the church hall will follow the funeral, and then interment at Assumption Roman Catholic Cemetery, 3990 Portage Avenue.