Matthew L. Gonsalves, Jr., 76, of Acushnet died March 6, 2004 at home after a long illness.
He was the husband of Therese M. (Joseph) Gonsalves and son of the late Matthew L. and Maria (Modesto) Gonsalves.
Mr. Gonsalves was born in New Bedford and lived in Acushnet most of his life.
In 1962, he and his wife founded the Surrey Shoppe in New Bedford and operated the family business with his son to this date.
He was an avid golfer and member of the New Bedford Country Club where he served on several boards and as president from 1975 to 1978. Mr. Gonsalves was a very loving husband, father and grandfather.
He was a proud participant of the survivors walk at the annual Relay for Life, since 1998.
Mr. Gonsalves served in the US Army during World War II.
Survivors include his wife; a son, Joel Gonsalves, and his wife Stephanie, of Dartmouth; a daughter, Gail Witmer of New Bedford; 2 sisters, Dorothy Frates of Carver and Hilda Florio of New Bedford; 3 grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Memorial Mass in St. Julie Billiart Church Wednesday, March 10th at 10 AM.
Visiting hours are omitted.
Interment private.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the American Cancer Society Relay For Life, c/o 19 Gabriel Farms Drive, Acushnet, MA 02743.