Obituary of Osvalda Ferreira

April 10, 1930– Villa da Riberia Grande, Portugal
November 2, 2021 – Calgary Alberta

Osvalda Ferreira, beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, passed away on Tuesday, November 2, 2021 at the age of 91 years.

Osvalda was born in the town of Villa da Riberia Grande, Portugal on April 10, 1930, and immigrated to Canada in 1957, where she became a Canadian Citizen. This was the biggest decision of her life, which meant leaving her home, family, friends and the small Village life she was very fond of in pursuit for an exciting adventure with her Jose’. In the beginning, their start in Canada presented the risk of the unknown, in pursuit for a better life filled with opportunity. 

Her early years had its challenges, struggles and blessings. But this created a strong, determined, resilient and adaptive person with deep faith. Eventually their life in Medicine Hat was joined by some of their closest family and friends from overseas that formed a small Portuguese community. There was always an abundance of food at these gatherings.
 
Osvalda’s love for God was the foundation of her life. She was a devoted faithful Catholic with a generous heart. Travelling to Portugal with her young family in 1969 and visiting Fatima was a highlight she spoke of often. Later in her mid 80’s, she returned to Fatima while being a part of a pilgrimage tour in Europe with her daughters. Keeping up with other pilgrims on walking tours and an intense schedule, she never complained and made many friends. She was an avid gardener and amazing cook who had many talents, including embroidery, crocheting, making clothing, and was always stylish in her appearance. 
 
She loved her garden and enjoyed creating wonderful groupings that would make her smile or laugh. There was always a story behind her creations that filled her with joy. She continued to work in her garden and drive her 1979 gold Honda Civic well into her late 80’s and remaining quite active, living comfortably in her home. Eventually, her last year was at Cambridge Manor Extended Care in Calgary, where she continued to make new friends who dearly loved her.

Many people who knew Osvalda would say she was sweet, kind, gracious, and liked to assist others. She had a lot of tenacious zip and José would fondly joke about her “spunk being like pepper in the stew”.

Osvalda deeply intertwined her love of family and faith until the very end. She had a very full, adventurous and meaningful life and will be deeply missed by her family and friends who knew her and loved her. “One day all blessed and safe we shall be together at last”.

Osvalda is survived by her four children, Joseph (Mary), Luisa (Mark), Aida (John), Belia (Bill); her adoring grandchildren, Nicole, Aaron (Kendra) Jonathan, Daniel, Stephen, and Shannon; great-grandchildren, Emilio, Graciella, Peyton, and Zachary; her brother Tony (Odette) Melo and family; her sister Rafaela (Tony) Pacheco and family; and numerous adoring nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Osvalda was predeceased by her loving husband José Ferreira of 57 years in 2013; her parents, Tereza and Jose’ De Melo; her dear sister Lucia Pimentel, dear brother-in-law Gualberto Pimentel, and dear cousins, Orlando and Virginia Cabral.

A Private Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, November 8, 2021, at 10:30 a.m. Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Mrs. Ferreira’s service streamed live (see below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted. Condolences, memories and photos can also be shared and viewed here.

In living memory of Osvalda Ferreira, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB T2X 3J3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.

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