John Pureza Greves
June 18, 1932 - Dec. 31, 2020
Resident of San Jose
John Pureza Greves was born on June 18, 1932 in the small town of Faja Grande, Flores, and grew up with 7 sisters and brothers.
At the age of 25, in 1957, John left the Azores in search of a better life and new opportunities. He took a one-way ticket to Canada and moved to the state of British Columbia. He worked on the railroads and learned English until 1960 when he moved to Sacramento where he worked as a gardener for the state. On December 17, 1960 he married Maria Teresinha Greves (Faria). They had two sons, Steve and Ron Greves, and raised them in Sacramento until they moved to San Jose in 1974. John worked for the East Side Union School District as a gardener and plumber up until his retirement in 1995. John was a hard working man, so when he retired he used his free time to become involved in the Portuguese community. He was a member of the I.E.S Hall and Aliaça Jorgense in San Jose, Saint Anthony and Saint Fatima of Santa Clara, and Saint Christ in San Francisco.
John also was blessed with two grandchildren, Kyle and Megan Greves. He helped raise his grandchildren throughout their childhood and adolescence. They were the lights of his life and he was always proud of their successes. John lived a life of adventure, spirit, gratitude, kindness, and love. He always cared for others and made his loved ones a priority over himself. He will be deeply missed and loved, may he rest in peace.
Visitation will be held 2:00 pm-5:00 pm on Tuesday, January 12, 2021 at Darling & Fischer Garden Chapel. A Mass will be celebrated at 12:00 pm January 13, 2021 at St. Victor's Catholic Church, 3108 Sierra Rd. San Jose, with a final viewing from 10:30 am -11:30 am at 875 Viceroy Way, San Jose. John will be laid to rest at Santa Clara Mission Cemetery.


View the online memorial for John Pureza Greves