Philip W. Ferreira, 53, of New Bedford died Monday July 21, 2003 unexpectedly at St. Luke's Hospital. He was the son of Lillian (LeBeau) Soule of New Bedford and the late William Ferreira.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, he lived in New Bedford for most of his life.
Mr. Ferreira was employed as maintenance man for the Aerovox Corporation and a machine operator for Acushnet Rubber Company.
Mr. Ferreira served in the U.S. Army with the 173rd Airborne Division during the Vietnam War. He was a recipient of the Army Commendation Medal for the performance of exceptionally meritorious service, the National Defense Medal, Parachute Badge with one Overseas Bar, Expert Badge M-16, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Vietnam Crewman Badge, the Sharpshooter Badge M-14. After his tour of duty with the 173rd, he requested to be reassigned to the 189th Assault Helicopter Company where he served as a door gunner.
Survivors include his mother; his companion, Karen O'Neil, and her three children, of New Bedford; a daughter, Melissa Ferreira; a stepbrother, Wayne Soule of New Bedford, several grandchildren, several aunts and uncles.
His Funeral Service with Military Honors will be held on Wednesday July 30, 2003 at 2:15 PM in the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne.