Joaquim Simoes

Joaquim M. Simoes 81 of New Bedford passed away Tuesday July 5, 2011, after a brief illness at St. Luke’s hospital. He was the husband of Maria L. (Freire) Simoes; they were married for 58 years and son of the late Antonio and Emelia (Melo) Simoes. He was born in Mamaroneck NY and lived in New Bedford for most of his life. He was formerly employed as a heavy equipment operator for the city of New Bedford until his retirement. Mr. Simoes was a Korean War veteran serving in the U.S. Army as a gunner and paratrooper. He earned the rank of corporal. He liked bowling, dancing, playing soccer and loved watching the Yankees. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family. Survivors include his wife; his son Alberto “Al” Simoes and his wife Maureen of New Bedford; his brother Antonio Simoes Jr. of New Bedford; his grandchildren Roxanne Simoes, Tiffany Murphy, Jennifer Simoes, James Melo Simoes and Chris Goncalves; his great-granddaughter Rochelle deMendonca; several nieces and nephews. He was the father of the late Joaquim Simoes. His funeral service will be 11am Friday Visiting hours are Thursday evening 5-7pm. Burial with military honors will be in Pine Grove cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to his family for the lighting of the flag poles in the veterans sections of the city cemeteries.