Joaquim J. "Jay" Burgo, 42, of New Bedford passed away at home on Tuesday November 10, 2015.
Born in New Bedford, he was the loving son of Marlene (Anacleto) Burgo and the late Joaquim "Jack" Burgo, Sr.
Jay was a graduate of Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration degree and his Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration degree, both from Western New England College. He was currently attending Northeastern University for an additional Masters degree.
He was a proud member of the U.S. National Guard . He retired after 20 years of service to his country at the rank of Captain/Major in the Corps of Engineers. He was a combat war veteran having proudly served two tours of duty overseas in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom with both of the 379th Engineer Company Combat Support Brigade and Company B 554th 1st Engineer Brigade.
During his service to his country, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medals, and National Defense and State Emergency Activation Ribbons.
Jay had also been a member of the New Bedford Police Department, having retired after 20 years of service as a patrol officer, major crimes and homicide detective, certified crisis/hostage negotiator, and school resource officer. During his tenure as a police officer, he was awarded the American Red Cross Law Enforcement Officer Hero Award in 2000.
Many years ago, he had been employed as a baker at St. Luke's Hospital.
He is survived by his loving mother, Marlene; his beloved children, Alissa K. Burgo and Madison J. Burgo, both of Virginia, and Cameron Jack Burgo of Dartmouth, who was also his best friend; his loving siblings, Mark Fermino, Ronda Fermino, Jacqueline Centeio, Desiree Hunt, and Venus Burgo, all of New Bedford; and beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.
His Funeral will be held on Friday at 9 AM from the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, followed by his Funeral Mass at St. Lawrence Church at 10 AM. Burial with military honors will be in Rural Cemetery. Visiting hours will be on Thursday from 4-8 PM. For directions and guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.