Brett A. Sunderland, 49, of Westport , formerly of Dartmouth, passed away on Sunday, August 17, 2014 at home. He was the son of Wayne A. Sunderland and his companion Nancy Z. Cook of Westport and Janet K. (Wallace) Paiva and her husband George of Dartmouth. He is also survived by his sister Tracy A. Sunderland of Mattapoisett; his former wife Lucila Duarte; as well as several aunts, uncles and cousins.
Born in New Bedford, he had resided in both Dartmouth and Westport for most of his life. Brett attended New Bedford Vocational Technical High School, studying Marine Industries and served his country in the United States Navy. He was an Able Bodied Seaman of the Merchant Marines, serving on various vessels and was recognized for his courageous actions during a rescue at sea. He also helped in the Haitian Earthquake Humanitarian Relief Effort on an amphibious ship.
Arrangements are private.