FALL RIVER – Henrique O. Soares, age 83 of Fall River, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 12, 2017 with his loving family by his side. Born in Santo António alem Capelas, São Miguel, Açores, he was the son of the late João O. & Teresa de Jesus (Martins) Soares and the beloved husband of Maria (Valentim) Soares. Prior to retiring, Henrique worked for Quaker Mfg. as a Weaver, served in the Portuguese Military, and was a parishioner of St. Joseph’s Church.
Henrique loved being with his family. Some of his most treasured times came through annual vacations in Falmouth (Cape Cod) where his days were filled with teaching his grandchildren how to fish and nights often spent engaging the family in demonstrations and techniques of various Portuguese dances.
Henrique loved his Azorean homeland. He was honored to be given the opportunity to have his family with him when he went back to visit. He relished recanting stories of his youth and proudly showing them their roots. He enjoyed being active in his garden and vineyard, generously sharing their bounty with family and friends. He was known for making the best of wines and delighted in the smiles of those who sampled his wonderful craft. He was an avid watcher of wrestling and discussing politics. He loved America. So much so, that he studied for months in hopes of passing the test for United States citizenship. And, at age 76, his dream became a reality. At the time, he was declared the oldest person in Fall River to be granted United States citizenship -an honor that made the event that much more sacred to him.
But, despite the incredible tapestry that was his life, his greatest joy and love was for his wife of 56 years, Maria. Together, they selflessly gave up their comforts of home and emigrated to the United States in hopes of gifting their children, and future generations, with the opportunities they could never have.
He will forever be our hero and we are eternally grateful to be his family. Rest in peace our love. You will be missed every day.
In addition to his wife of Fall River, survivors include his Children: Henry Soares (his wife Dianne) of Fall River, Theresa Barbosa (her husband Fred) of Portsmouth, RI, John Soares (his girlfriend Aureliana Dias) of Fall River, Nancy Arsenault (her husband John) of Charlton, MA; Siblings: Alice Oliveira of Westport, João Campos Soares of Fall River, Teresa Soares Correia of Ottawa, Canada; Grandchildren: Jeremy, Alexa, Samantha, Adam, & Danée; many Nieces & Nephews. He was also the brother of the late Mary Moniz, Antonio Soares, Alfred Campos Soares, & Jose Campos Soares.
His funeral will take place from the MANUEL ROGERS & SONS FUNERAL HOME, INC. 1521 N. Main St. Fall River on Saturday at 9:00 A.M. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Joseph’s Church at 10:00 A.M. Interment in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Fall River. Calling hours on Friday from 5:00 – 8:00 P.M. www.rogersfuneral.com.