Deborba, Maria Mendes (nee Avila) passed peacefully at Fort Saskatchewan Hospital on March 10, at the age of 88 years.   Maria was born on September 17, 1933 on San Jorge, Azores.  The eldest of three daughters, she is predeceased by Dolores (Louis Azevedo) in 2015 and survived by Aldora (Tony Bettencourt) of Mission BC.

Mom, grandma, great grandma will be lovingly remembered by her sons John and Jose (Karen) and grandchildren Christopher (Ingrid), Adam (Lindsay), Charlie (Lynn), Russell, and Sophia (Steve) and great grandson, Elliott.

Growing up in the Azores, Maria spent much time working the fields and, eventually, working in a tuna canning plant. She immigrated to Canada in 1958, settling in Boston Bar with husband, John, and their two sons.  Eventually, they moved to own and work on an orchard in Oliver where she also spent many happy years in the South Okanagan Senior Secondary cafeteria.

Maria moved to Fort Saskatchewan in 2015 to be closer to her son, John.  The family is grateful for the hours of support, care and companionship he provided. The family also wishes to express their thanks to her pals at Lion’s Haven and the staff and friends at Turner Lodge.

Private mass will be celebrated immediately. At a later date, inurnment will be scheduled in Oliver, BC where she can finally rest beside her beloved John.

Mom will be remembered in butter tarts, apple pie and prayer. Rest in peace.