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Dalila Ana Viegas
1927 - 2021
Dalila Ana Viegas
1927 - 2021
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1927
DIED
2021
Dalila Viegas Obituary
Dalila Ana Viegas passed away peacefully at home in the early hours of August 11, 2021, exactly a month before her ninety-fourth birthday. She was surrounded by the prayers of her four children and a dear friend and priest in Australia. She took her final breath holding the hand of her daughter, Goretti, who she lived with. Our shared loss at her passing is immeasurable.
Dalila was born in Salcete, Goa (Portuguese India), and grew up in Panjim. The first born child of eight, she was the daughter of a wealthy importer of luxury goods. She was strongly connected to her family and spoke of her own mother, Graziela Mendes, as her best friend.
Even though her marriage was arranged, she was fortunate to marry the love of her life—her soul mate, Belarmino (Belu) Viegas. The two of them made the courageous move to Karachi, Pakistan to start a new life and raise a family, all the while missing her parents and siblings.
When her youngest daughter, Margarette, was in middle school, she joined the working world. She took typing and shorthand classes but wanted more of a challenge than secretarial work offered. Since numbers came easily to her, she took a position as a clerk at Grindlays Bank and spent nearly 20 years there happily catching accounting errors. During this time, with her children still in school, she would make the 20-minute trek home in the searing Pakistani heat (in heels, no less!) just to ensure her children were settled after a day at school.
Once her children were grown up, she made another brave move to the US, where, along with her husband, she adjusted to new customs and new scenery. She immediately made friends and, as was her compassionate nature, became a caregiver for a neighbor who was like a surrogate granddaughter to her, and then again to an ailing senior. At the time, she also endeavored to learn to drive, but, after backing into the garage, decided it was not for her and let Belu chauffeur her around.
Sharp, spirited, and never one to turn down a challenge, at the age of 75, she decided to take piano lessons for the first time since childhood. She surprised us all with her recitals, and diligent practice. Then followed voice lessons, which tuned her sweet soprano voice in preparation for the church choir. As the oldest choir member, she was revered by the group who harmonized with her at weekly Sunday mass.
Dalila will be remembered as a lover of life. She adored dancing with her Belu, her hair always perfectly coiffed. They made a dashing couple on the dance floor and in life, and ventured out to see the world together. From Canada to Goa, Dubai to Portugal, Brazil to Venice, Dalila enjoyed culture to its fullest.
After Belu passed away in 2016, ever resilient, she again adjusted to living on her own. She never complained, though she missed him dearly. When she was invited to live in Florida with daughter Goretti, she willingly made the move relishing time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and easily making friends in her new city of Davie, Florida.
She gave of herself freely, particularly to those who needed kindness and a welcoming smile the most. Sensitive and loving, she has passed her wisdom and character down through generations. Until her final days, she kept connected to her family on regular Sunday Zoom calls to pray the rosary, blessing everyone present.
Into her nineties, Dalila was known for her wit and wisdom, her intelligence and intuition. A wise and compassionate matriarch, fearless protector, active listener, talented musician, voracious reader (with a penchant for Barbara Cartland) and avid watcher of Netflix, she will be dearly missed.
St. John Chrysostom:
“She whom we love and lose, is no longer where she was before. She is now wherever we are”
We are grateful to all those who want to pay respects at this time. Dalila's wish was to be buried beside her Belu in California, and so, given the restrictions of the current situation, the family is focused on arranging that. There will not be a public service or video streaming. If you would like to make a donation, the family requests donations to GOA SUDHAROP, a non-profit organization based in the USA. 100% of your donations go to projects serving low-income and poor people in Goa and there are zero administrative or other fees - 100% of your donation goes to the causes. To make a donation, please visit: https://www.goasudharop.net/donate or you can donate by sending a check made payable to "Goa Sudharop" and mail to: Goa Sudharop, 873 Windsor Hills Circle, San Jose, CA 95123, USA.
GOA SUDHAROP was especially close to mum's heart and she and the family supported the organization over the years.
169 Entries
RIP darling Mum. Viewing in Florida, Burial in California and Months Mind and Birthday Prayers on Sept 11, 2021 at the graveside.
Goretti Gonsalves
September 15, 2021
Us through the years! Mum and Dad please watch over all of us and our families. AMEN.
Goretti Gonsalves
September 14, 2021
1958
Goretti Gonsalves
September 14, 2021
At Grandma's 89 Birthday.
Justin & Carter Viegas
September 14, 2021
How you can show support
Father's Day 2021
Kimberly Narvaez
September 14, 2021
Christmas 2020
Kimberly Narvaez
September 14, 2021
2015 at our wedding. So glad you and Grandpa came from California.
Clint Rodricks
September 14, 2021
Dear Grandma,
I’m going to miss you so much. I know we didn’t spend as much time together as we could have, but I am extremely happy that we had the relationship that we had. I will cherish the memories that I have of coming to your house and spending time with you and grandpa eating ball curry and potato bhaji after spending the day in the garden catching snails in California. It truly was one of my favorite childhood memories. You were a remarkable woman and a role model for Priya and Aliya. It’s amazing the goals you set so late in life and made sure to accomplish them. Most people can’t be dedicated enough to learn the piano, let alone do it in their 70s.
I’m grateful that you were able to spend the last few years in Florida, come stay with Christy and me for a few weeks and really spend some quality time with us. The fact that Priya, Aliya and Lucas got to spend so much time with their great grandmother is priceless to me. I know they may not remember a lot of it but we have so many pictures to share with them when they get older. I wish they could have spent a few more years with you, and learned what an amazing person you are, the way I have, but that wasn’t what God decided.
You're in my heart forever and I will always think of you. I’m happy to know that you are in a better place where you will not be forced to eat and drink water. We will be reunited one day but until then, I love you and say hi to grandpa for me.
Love
Clint
With both my Grandma's: Daryl
Daryl Pinto
September 13, 2021
Mum, Grandpa, Me and Grandma
Daryl Pinto
September 13, 2021
Mum and Gail
Gail Viegas
September 13, 2021
I always shared a special relationship with mom. We both shared a common love for crafting and watching historical movies.
I remember many fun hours spent with her just chatting about Goa and family and recipes etc. She was particularly fond of my Green Chutney and Pakoras and Dad loved my ‘Paya’.
They were both my mom and dad here in the US and I will always remember how they welcomed me with so much love and kindness when I came here about 10 years ago.
Mom and Dad visited my parents in Goa when I first came here and they told my parents how happy they were and that they would always take care of me That is who mom and dad were kind,caring, generous and prayerful.
After going through the grief of losing my parents and now them, my heart feels so empty and sad.
I just take solace in the picture of all of them with our grandparents watching over us with so much love and care up in Heaven. This is what gives me some joy knowing that they are together with their loved ones.
Thank you mom and dad for all you have been for me.
I will miss you forever!
Love you both so much!!
Your daughter-in-law Gail.
1961
Goretti Gonsalves
September 11, 2021
At the Broward Library armed with books... and so happy!
Goretti Gonsalves
September 11, 2021
Christmas 2019
Goretti Gonsalves
September 11, 2021
At the beach in 2020
Goretti Gonsalves
September 11, 2021
2015
Goretti Gonsalves
September 11, 2021
The sweetest Mother-In-Law ever, and my partner in crime in fruit tasting. Missing you:<br />John
John Gonsalves
September 11, 2021
It was early Sunday morn... and we took Grandma to Church. <br />Kim, Jordan and Mason
Kimberly Narvaez
September 11, 2021
Enjoying a drink with my mother in law. <br /><br />Charles Pinto
Charles Pinto
September 11, 2021
Dancing with my sister Dalila at her 90th birthday.
Rene Mendes
September 12, 2021
Recordar e viver – To remember is to live
Dalila was a second mother for us. I was a page boy for her wedding.
When the joyous Viegas family came on a holiday to Goa, all the Mendes family got into a holiday mood. Papa used to go early in the morning to the market to buy fish/prawns/pork/sausages/beef. Mama was busy supervising the preparation of sorpotel, sannas, chicken xacuti, potato chops, not forgetting the bebinca, doce de grao.
Papa would open the cupboard-bar and invite Mano Belu to treat himself to whatever he wanted. For us it was Miramar beach in the evening time while for Mama and Dalila, it was shopping time. Later in the evening our veranda was full of entertainment. Those were the days when we played rock n roll on our radiogram. Mama and Dalila used to sleep in the same bed and whisper to each other till 2-3 am.
The peak was Sebastian and Tereza’s wedding. I got a suit which lasted for 20-years. More recently the moment I remember was when I paid Dalila a surprise visit for her 90th. Birthday in California.
Recordar e viver – To remember is to live.
Ti-Rene Mendes
Sebastian Mendes
September 11, 2021
A tribute to my dear sister Dalila
There is an age difference of only 5-years & one day between both of us with two sisters born in between: Laura and Alice. So with my birth as the first son (code named: ticlo sonsar giclo) there were big celebrations by our father who was always thinking about who will succeed in his growing business. On my birthday, a few years later, on September 12, we moved to our new house that my father designed and built with imports from Portugal including beautiful tiles throughout the house which remain to this day. This beautiful mansion is in the heart of Goa in Panaji, then known as Panjim.
During the last World War II (between 1939/1945) it was a very challenging time for our sister Dalila as she had to help our mother look after so many small children, six of us, and Dalila was only 12-years old. During this period when availability of food was a big problem, coupled with limited financial resources since our father's business was reduced to zero, both our mother and eldest sister Dalila managed to feed the family with something to survive. Of course after the war our father's business started booming and within a year our life was very comfortable again.
Dalila's marriage was arranged to Belu. Belu had moved from Goa to Karachi, Pakistan along with his mother and priest brother Fr. Adolfo, a very influential person in the Portuguese Consulate in Karachi. Their marriage took place in Bombay. Belu became a member of our extended family and we all enjoyed his company.
I remember very vividly Dalila contacting me regarding sending Euclides to the USA, having no contacts in that country. At that time I admired both Belu and Dalila for sending their only son abroad. Congratulations to Euclides for not disappointing his parents as he eventually sponsored them and the rest of the family soon followed.
My contact with Dalila remained frequent, both written and long telephone conversations. However when our sister Laura passed away, both of us were very upset and decided to be in touch more frequently. I would like to mention that in the Mendes family we had dual language system in force. We spoke both Konkani and Portuguese and Dalila was happy to speak to me in Portuguese.
This sudden death of my dearest sister Dalila, with all the care of her children, and especially lately by Goretti, has left me inconsolable.
RIP (Requiem In Pacea) with my last prayer: Seja feita a vontade de Deus Amen, God’s will be done Amen
A big condolence hug to all of you:
Uncle Sebastian
Loved dancing with Grandma. She was so much fun!!!
Justin Viegas
September 11, 2021
Grandma holding me, 1985.
Denise Pinto
September 11, 2021
Grandma and Quincy, Florida 2019.
Denise Pinto
September 11, 2021
Robert Wakulat
September 11, 2021
Dear Great Grandma,
We didn't get to spend too much time together but I'm so glad you had the opportunity to meet your great-grandson Quincy in both Canada and Florida. Your delight in seeing and holding him was palpable and gratifying. We could see the love you had for him. I have come to know you mostly through the stories told by your daughter Margarette and granddaughter Denise. It's clear you demonstrated resiliency, care, and love throughout your life. You have left a growing and meaningful legacy behind as you move on to the next divine chapter of your life.
Robert, Denise's partner
Quincy and Denise visiting (Great) Grandma in Florida, 2019.
Denise Pinto
September 11, 2021
Denise Pinto
September 11, 2021
My sweet Grandma,
I miss you so much. I always loved when you and Grandpa visited Canada, seeing you at the Arrivals gate at the airport, hair always perfect. You taughtme how to make square chapatis, layered with butter, puffed on a pan. Yours were always soft and precise. Mine were always mangled.
You were sharp, a challenger. I remember how you would protect me ("Heh, let her be!") if my cousins were teasing me. And how you modelled a lifelong love of learning, taking up the piano in your eighties. You always asked us grandkids what we were studying, patientlylistening to our stories,needling us about our plans and ambitions. You were so proud of me when I graduated with a Master's degree in Architecture. (I had become more precise with my shapes by then.)
You loved to chat with friends. You had many around the world, of course. One of your dearest friends later in life was my dad's mom, Tressie. One year, you both visited us at the same time,you from California and her from Arizona. You two laughed and bantered into the warm night, you with your rhythmic Portuguese accent. In the morning, we played a classic parlour game called Balderdash (making up definitions of obscure words) and turn after turn you instantly knew which player was trying to dupe us! Very shrewd,knowing who was lying.
I'm so grateful you got to meet Quincy in his early life. You boarded a plane straight away when he was born, to hold your fifth little Great Grandchild (whose name, incidentally, means "fifth") and give him your blessings ofsafety,protection, health. He began to look forward to seeing you on our weekly Zoom calls as he grew intotoddlerhood during the pandemic. You were Great Grandma, and my mom was "Grandma Grandma." One of the last conversations we had with you was him reciting an Urdu poem for you. How lucky we were to witness love between generations.
When I was a kid, I loved yourstories about yourmom, my Great Grandma Graziela. You always had light in your eyes when you spoke about her. She was your best friend and confidante until she passed. It gives me strength knowing I come from such a strong matriarchal line. I feel privileged to have a window into the women who came before me, and whose blood runs in me. I'll do my best in this life to live up to that collective legacy.
Rest peacefully, Grandma. No more pain where you are. It's comforting to know you were at home, surrounded by the prayers of your children and Fr. Arnold when you left us. I remember waking up to the news of your passing and to a downpour outside,thunder, the sky alight. Grandpa once told me that when itrains, the sky is crying. That's how it felt, like the whole world was in mourning. You will always be in our hearts.
Denise
Mum with Denise and Quincy
Margarette and Charles Pinto
September 11, 2021
Mum with Quincy and me
Margarette and Charles Pinto
September 11, 2021
Mum when I visited her in Florida on July 10, 2021
Margarette and Charles Pinto
September 11, 2021
Henrique Mendes
September 11, 2021
Dearest Aunty Dalila, wishing you a very Happy 94th Birthday. While you have left us to be in the arms of the Lord, you will always remain in our heart and in our thoughts. From visiting your home in Karachi when I was only four, to more recent visits in California, you were always a warm and gentle soul that was so happy to see me, your nephew and son from your brother. Along with Uncle Belu I always thought you both were a couple to be admired for so many qualities, and in fact one of the very few people I knew that had no flaws at all, and an inspiration to all of us. Family was very important to you and your ties to Goa, your childhood environment was so strong and you always kept the bonds to the rest of the family even after leaving for foreign shores. We miss you and I know that Pa especially will miss your frequent phone conversations that he used to look forward to. We will pray that you are resting in peace, reunited with your soulmate while you linger in our warm memories spent in your company, missing you but knowing that you lived a full and blissful life.
Daryl Pinto
September 11, 2021
You will always live on in the hearts of the many lives that you've touched.
Margarette Pinto
September 11, 2021
Darling Mum,
On this, what would have been your 94th birthday, it seems surreal that you are no longer with us.
You taught us some great values that have carried us through life and have passed on to our kids as well.
Never to gossip, to appreciate life and to trust in God. I remember growing up, that Dad told us that the
public (stat) holiday in Karachi on your birthday was because you were so important, that the country
had a holiday because of you! And of course we believed Dad :)
When the kids were young, if I'd tell you about some ailment that they had, or school story, the next time we
spoke you always followed up. You were so proud of all their accomplishments. Even Quincy was
privileged to have you hold and bless him.
You were so brave when Dad passed away, never a burden on anyone. You took your new station in life
with ease and grace and transitioned to your new life independently for a couple of years before moving to
Florida where you shone your light there.
After I married and moved away, every time we met, your bright welcoming smile was so heartwarming.
Charles loved teasing you and your infectious laugh showed that you knew and you teased him right back.
I love you and will hold you in my heart until we meet again.
With love and prayers
Margarette and Charles
Always smiling & having fun!!
Alanna Viegas-Cho
September 11, 2021
Our last time at church together
Alanna Viegas-Cho
September 11, 2021
Will always love you Grandma!
Alanna Viegas-Cho
September 11, 2021
Alanna Viegas-Cho
September 11, 2021
Grandma you taught me how important it is to put family first & God above all. Grandma I pray to be like you - a genuinely good, kind hearted soul with an infectious laugh I miss talking to you, just hearing your voice and you saying “Dear”. Everything reminds me of you & Grandpa, you both will forever & always be in my heart. I love you Grandma!
Spending time together
Pony, Alanna, Aiden & Brody Cho
September 11, 2021
Always present & smiling!
Pony, Alanna, Aiden & Brody Cho
September 11, 2021
GREAT-Grandma!
Pony, Alanna, Aiden & Brody Cho
September 11, 2021
Pony, Alanna, Aiden & Brody Cho
September 11, 2021
Grandma thank you for all the beautiful memories and time you shared with us, we were blessed to have you in our lives! Such wonderful memories of the boys playing piano next their Great-Grandma, Brody drinking your ensure (thinking it’s a milkshake!), and simply the time together - you were always present & so happy. You’re now our Guardian Angel, please protect and guide us day & night
We love you Grandma
Priya Rodricks
September 11, 2021
Priya Rodricks
September 11, 2021
Priya Rodricks
September 11, 2021
Priya Rodricks
September 11, 2021
Priya Rodricks
September 11, 2021
Dear Great Grandma
We miss you. Thank you for all the toys you gave us and the love you gave us. We know you're in heaven with great grandpa. We love you.
Love Priya, Aliya and Lucas
Christina Rodricks
September 11, 2021
Dear Grandma,
I hope you’re resting well in paradise with Grandpa. What I write can never truly express the impact you’ve had in my life. I lost my own Grandmother many years ago, throughout those years I felt a real void. Until I met you, you made me feel as if I was your own Granddaughter even though the blood that ran through our veins was different. That has always been the woman you were, someone who loved a stranger and made her feel like she belonged. I was blessed to have you stay with us, although the time may have been short the memories were endless. I loved our late night movies, our endless conversation on our faith in Jesus, the cooking lessons, and hearing stories of your amazing life. Your life story was so captivating to me, proving your favor from God. I will cherish these memories. I already miss you so much Grandma, everything about you filled my life with happiness and filled a void. I hold onto the promise God has for us, knowing we will meet again on that beautiful shore.
I love you...until we meet again Grandma.
Love,
Christy
Euclides Viegas
September 11, 2021
Euclides Viegas
September 11, 2021
Euclides Viegas
September 11, 2021
Euclides Viegas
September 11, 2021
My fondest memories of mummy:
Mummy always had my back. I was her only son and I can’t imagine how hard it must have been for her to let me come to America. She was protective like a lioness protecting her cubs.
When we were very young, she made us love reading in a subtle way. During the summer holidays when we were home, we could never tell her we were bored, she would say "find something to do" but she would leave books for us to read all over the house. So being bored with nothing to do, we would pick the books and started to read.... hence our love for reading even today.
I was a picky eater and mum would try everything possible to create dishes that I would like (she was a fantastic meal creator). If I liked the food then she would make it again and if I didn’t she would not... even if my sisters loved the dish.
Mummy I will miss talking to you but I am happy that you are together with daddy whom you missed so much. I still talk to you everyday and ask for help like your little boy. Love you and daddy very much. You both were the best parents I can ever imagine having. RIP
My Most Amazing Mum: Always on my mind and forever in my heart. With Love, Goretti
Goretti & John Gonsalves
September 11, 2021
Goretti Gonsalves
September 11, 2021
Today is Sept 11th and it would have been your 94th birthday Mum. But you are not here. You left us a month ago. I can’t begin to tell you how much I miss you, especially today. What a privilege and blessing it was to have had you live with me for the last few years of your life. You were so easy going, so appreciative of anything I did. So content watching Netflix movies late into the night, busy talking to your numerous friends and the family on the phone, reading your books, sitting in the sunny patio, enjoying your meals, always praising my cooking and uplifting me. I loved how John and you would sing at the dinner table and how you enjoyed the fruit from our backyard. And going back 34 years ago, I will always remember how when I first arrived in the US (NY), you took my babies Clint and Sonia to CA and took such good care of them for over 3 months while I was settling down.
I know you are celebrating your birthday with dad in Heaven. how wonderful that must be. You two were so devoted to one another that an hour before dad left us all, he caught your hand as you passed by him, kissed it and thanked you for taking such good care of him.
These precious memories and more will carry me through the rest of my life. Rest in Peace Darling Mum. You will always be on my mind and forever in my HEART.
Your loving daughter: Goretti .
We love you GRANDMA / GREAT GRANDMA!!!!
JUSTIN VIEGAS
September 11, 2021
Dearest Grandma -
We will always remember the smell of your house with delicious food and steeping hot tea. We will always remember your infectious laugh that filled our hearts with joy. But most important we will remember your love. The love you had for everyone. The love you shared to all your grandkids, great-grandkids, family close, family far and even for people you have yet to meet. I’ll always remember you and grandpa dancing every moment you had. I imagine you are dancing with grandpa once again. We will love and miss you.
One Hail Mary and One Our Father.
With Love -
Justin & Carter
Maju & Glen Furtado
September 11, 2021
Maju & Glen Furtado
September 11, 2021
Maju & Glen Furtado
September 11, 2021
Darling Mum - Rest In Peace
D - Devoted to God
A - Awesome mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, great-grandmother
L - Loving wife
I - Intelligent
L - Ladylike
A - Accomplished
Mary-Anne Braganca
September 10, 2021
Dalila and I would spend time talking about our Goan traditions and sharing our traditional recipes such as chana kadose.
When Dalila and Belu came to visit my husband Jerome and I at our home, I fondly remember us singing songs in Concanim and Belu and Delilah dancing while I played the piano.
In most recent years, we were able to keep in touch through phone calls, and with thanks to her daughter Margarette, conference calls.
I will always remember Dalila as a dear friend.
Blossom Che
September 10, 2021
Dear Goretti and Family, Margarette and Family,
Please accept our condolence on the passing away of your mum . May her sould rest in peace and may God give you'll strength to bear this loss.
With deepest Sympathies,
Blossom and Patrick Che & family.
Maria Jose (Zezinha) Mendes
September 14, 2021
É com muita dor e tristeza que lamento a perda da minha querida tia. Com todo meu respeito transmito
força e condolências a toda minha familia pela perda de um ser humano maravilhoso.
Perdemos um grande coração que nos transmitia carinho, paz ,sempre com um sorriso no rosto. Nesse espaço vazio que ficou ganhamos um anjo no céu ,que preenche o nosso coração.
Com muito amor,descanse em paz,
da sobrinha Maria José Mendes (Zezinha)
Grace Furtado-Ramos
September 3, 2021
I often heard how our parents made the brave leap together, embarked our Portuguese 'Wayflower-boat' to Karachi as newlywed-brides. Ironically had four kids same age & gender, 'had to be the water on that boat!'
My fond memories as a kid, I gleefully awaited the annual 'Christmas-Tree', held to mingle amongst the few Portuguese speaking Goan families. I admired the Viegas (Von Trapp) kids, who won/stole the 'talent-show' every Christmas. Big Cheers to 'que linda mentors'!!
I was so honored (TY to Shirl), I had such precious moments celebrating the special birthday '92', with your lovely mum & bela familia!
Obrigado, Abracos e Beijos
Grace Furtado-Ramos
Eileen Mendes
September 2, 2021
I was heartbroken to hear of Dalila's passing. I knew Belu, her husband when he was a bachelor and he was at my eldest son' s christening. Likewise we attended Euclid's christening.
Whenever Dalila visited Canada, she made it a point to visit me, rekindle our friendship and reminisce about our good old days back in Karachi. Our friendship spans over 70 years.
She was a true and loving friend and even though far away she called frequently and kept in touch . She would often say, that after her husband, I was her best friend.
I will miss you my dearest friend, may your soul Rest in Eternal Peace.
Eileen Mendes
Sumita Sen
September 1, 2021
I had the good fortune to meet auntie Delilia and Uncle Belu shortly after they first arrived in California, and came to stay with Maria in San Pablo.
I have such fond memories of Joyous laughter and fun times spent in their warm and welcoming presence. It seems like yesterday . I also remember auntie and uncle beaming at Maria’s wedding and having a blast on the dance floor. They were beautiful together.
Auntie always had a smile on her face and seemed perennially young. You could tell she loved life and enjoyed it throughly.
After uncle passed away Maria often bought auntie to the tea parties I had at my house. She fitted right in with this group of younger expat Indian women.
I last saw Auntie at her 90th birthday celebration in Fremont. What a blessed and vibrant life she led. I know she is loved by her God for her took her gently. I imagine Auntie and Uncle tearing up the dance floor in heaven with a smile on their face.
God bless you auntie I know you are at peace and resting with your beloved Belu. Thank you for being such a loving warm and gentle part of our lives for so long.
My condolences to auntie’s large and beautiful family. She is with you always .. in the memories you hold of her.
♥
Brenda
August 31, 2021
Dear Margarette, Goretti and Margie
I remember your mum from our time together in Karachi. She was always welcoming whenever we visited and treated us with her warm smile. Visiting your home was always fun. I am very sorry for the loss of your beloved mum , may her soul rest in peace.
Brenda
Phedra Mendes
September 14, 2021
My sincerest and deepest condolences to my cousin's, Euclid, Marju, Goretti and Margarette. The passing of Tia Dalila was extremely sad. Tia Dalila was my dad's oldest sibling and one of 8. We've had fond memories of her when she visited Goa with U. Belu and my cousins. I would hear the joy in my dad's voice when he saw or spoke to her, which was very heartwarming, it showed the strong bond shared by the siblings, especially in the more recent years with the sad passing of many of their siblings .
Rest in Peace Tia Dalila, you are now united with your soulmate U.Belu and your parents and siblings .
Mariette Rajan
August 31, 2021
Our deepest condolences on the loss of your dear Mom. You all will miss her terribly but take comfort in knowing that she is reunited with your beloved Dad.
I remember visiting Margarette to spend the day in your home in Karachi on a couple of occasions. Meals were always presented so beautifully in China serving dishes which made me feel so special and made the meal feel like a feast. Your Mom obviously influenced you all in that respect because Goretti to this day serves up the most decked out table settings with elaborate and delicious food and is most hospitable whenever we visit Florida.
Kristin D'Souza
August 31, 2021
all, i’m so sorry for your loss. auntie dalila has always been such a lovely soul and her light has always shone and will always shine through you all. i can’t imagine your pain and shock and sadness and grief—all the feelings that are a measure of your love for her—i sincerely hope that the journey through it is as peaceful as possible, complex as grief is. i am thinking of everyone and sending so many warm, positive thoughts. wish i could give you all a big hug.
Eva Mendes
August 30, 2021
Dear Veigas Family
It is with such a sad heart that I write my condolence to you. Growing up in your home was so wonderful and your mum was this warm, loving and beautiful person. My best memories of your mum was on a holiday in Goa. Seeing your mum surrounded by her brothers and watching her sit by her mum chatting like she had never left home. To see how happy she was to be home was wonderful. Aunty Dalila rest in peace united once again with your family.
All my love
Sharon Pinto Khurana
August 30, 2021
I will forever be grateful for the kindness Aunty Dalila had shown me when I lived with your parents. Her quiet but ever present nurturing spirit was such a balm to the 15 year old me that was trying to make sense of not having my mom with me for those few months. She made me feel so welcome and loved. Margarette, you and your siblings embody the best of her, and that is how she will continue to always be present amongst us. Hugs and love to all of you.
Hassan, Shahla, Sheerin, Sherwin Karimian
August 30, 2021
Dear Euclides, Maju, Goretti, Margarette, and families,
We were so happy to live across from Mr. and Mrs. Viegas' house. Whenever our children were not happy at home, we knocked on their door and saw them opening it with a big smile and warm open arms. They spent good quality times with our children as if they were their own grandchildren.
I personally couldn't stay away from them, even after we had moved out of San Pablo. I kept going to their house often during my lunch break and each time, we had a small potluck party together. One time, I watched part of the World Cup Soccer game and cheered with Mr. Viegas for the Portugal team while Mrs. Viegas was doing her own work on the side, because she wasn't interested in those kinds of games.
Taking Mrs. Viegas shoe shopping was another fun memory for me. She couldn't believe that it was so much fun for me to be with her. It was a joy and a victory for both of us whenever we found the right size shoes with the right width for her!
I will never forget when Mrs. Viegas was reading her birthday card from me inside the entertainment center of her new house in Union City. She looked so beautiful, knowledgeable, kind, and nice!!!! Thinking about living far-away from such a beautiful and high class person with a beautiful spirit made me feel overwhelmed; as a result, I started to cry. I felt bad and embarrassed for crying at her birthday party, but I believe that she understood my pain, because she hugged me and kissed me; then she said that everything would be all right.
Another memory of Mrs. Viegas is when she spent a night over at our house after Mr. Viegas had passed away. She told us that they were married for over sixty years and she never stopped loving him.
Mrs. Viegas was one of the Angels of my life; she helped me at the toughest time of my life. She taught me about Christianity and the proper way to pray. I'm so glad that all of you are wonderful reflections of your extraordinary parents; now that they are in Heaven, my family and I are relying on you to be our spiritual leaders just like them. God Bless their Souls.
With much love,
Hassan, Shahla, Sheerin, Sherwin, and Karimian
Sueli Mariwaki
August 30, 2021
The story of Dalila Viegas, was beautifully written and brings to life her blessed and fruitful life. Her children are obviously very proud to be born with such wonderful parents. Margarette, the youngest of her children is my best friend, and we live in Toronto, Canada. Years ago, her parents were visiting and her dad asked to borrow a sewing machine from my father in law. I thought it was cute that as a men he knew how to use it and mended clothes for the family. They spoke Portuguese, which they practiced a few times with me. I was flattered when they kindly said that looked very young
I remember Margarette’s mom was an avid reader. It’s that time, I had just returned from Portugal and gave her the book Sister Lucia wrote with her story of the apparition at Fatima. Margarette told me that she read in one day, and could not put it down until finished.
Their lives are an inspiration to us all. May God bless them both, and keep them happily together in eternity.
Elaine Magnum
August 29, 2021
My heartfelt condolences to Goretti and the Viegas family. I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. and Mrs. Viegas a few years ago when they attended Tri-Rail "Senior Idol Contest" at the War Auditorium in Fort Lauderdale. I got to know them through their daughter Goretti. Mr. and Mrs. Viegas were a very nice couple, loving and caring people was my first impression of them. During the Senior Idol Show they loved the old music from the 1940s to the 1970s and they were tapping their feet and singing along all the old songs. We had a nice evening together. RIP Mrs. Viegas in the arms of the Lord.
Patrick Morrow
August 27, 2021
Since I met Goretti at work in 2019 I always wanted to meet her mother, Dalila Ana Viegas. I work with Goretti at Lumen and I’m fascinated by people in general, but your family’s story is nothing short of amazing. From India (Portuguese Goa) to Pakistan to .. US just thrilling to hear how you moved across the globe and stayed a loving family unit. I went to India myself to visit my 1 good friend there, Mahesh Choudhary (RIP January 2021), in 2006. We travelled to Goa and other places, a must for all you readers!
I feel like I would have had so much to talk about with Delila, we had lots of things in common but, alas, didn’t happen. I joined the Miami Dade library (free and amazing book service / home delivery) in 2018 and I kept trying to recommend amazing murder mystery novels for Delila (big print) since I knew she loved to read but at that time I heard Delila was enjoying Netflix more.
I wanted to meet Delila Ana because it sounded like she liked everything I like: Goretti’s cooking, her own delicious cuisine, reading, culture, Christian faith, Netflix and I heard she was funny with a lovely outlook on life. Also, I’m British by birth and GB / India - we have a lot in common and so much to talk about, not just cricket!
Very saddened by the timeline before her death but it comes to all of us. RIP Delila Ana - what a delight to everyone - children, grand children, great grand children - you touched!
Much love,
Patrick Morrow (and Sean Garfield Craig), Kendall FL.
Keisha Henriques
August 26, 2021
My deepest condolences to you and your family. Your mom was greatly loved, respected and admired. May her soul rest in eternal peace.
Fr. Arnold Heredia
August 25, 2021
Dearest Euclid, Maju, Gorrett and Margarette. It was very meaningful for me to participate in the Farewell Service of your dearest and loving Mum. The priest conducted a meaningful Service.
My attendance was meaningful as I was the only link participating with you, who knew your Dad before he was married. I was close to Pathio as he was Director of the Altarboys Society. Dad often came to meet him. When he married, Pathio took me over a couple of times to their home after blessing the houses after Easter. That’s how I got the know Mum as well. This contact lasted all through my and their lives. I wasn’t around for Dad’s Farewell. I’m happy I could participate in Mum’s Farewell thanks to modern technology which you were able to use. What a blessing that Gorrett and Margarette along with your spouses and myself, living miles away could participate with Euclid, Maju and spouses at the solemn Farewell of your dearest Mum. Dad and Mum - the inseparable pair - are now reunited forever. Amen.
Wilma and Rod Simmons
August 25, 2021
Our deepest condolences on the passing of your dear Mom. We remember her fondly, from the many times we visited your house in Karachi. Her warmth, generosity and love of life, is definitely passed down to you, Goretti. We enjoyed reading her obit and the slide show was such a beautiful tribute to your lovely mother. It brought back so many wonderful memories of your entire family. The music and the videos (especially, I love you from the sky to the ground ) and all the lifelong pictures were such a precious way to commemorate her life - so full of love, laughter and adventure. It touched our hearts to see and feel the love she had for her family and friends. It is not easy to say goodbye to one you have loved and who has loved you for so long, but without a doubt she will be up there, your special angel, watching over all of you, forever. Sending lots of love and big hugs. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May her soul Rest In Peace. Wilma and Rod ❤❤❤
Raisa Martinez
August 25, 2021
Dalila your beautiful smile is now radiating in heaven as it radiated on earth. You will always be in our hearts ♥
Patricia Gonzales
August 25, 2021
My deepest condolences to all the Viegas family. It’s so sad that everyone could not be together to comfort each other and celebrate this exemplary life. What an amazing lady Dalila I will miss your beautiful smile and the inspiration you were to me every time I saw you. Your legacy lives on in the wonderful family you raised and loved so dearly. I pray that you are dancing in the heavens with the love of your life rejoicing looking down on The beautiful family and legacy you left here on earth. May God Bless you and your wonderful family always. Rest In Peace beautiful lady. You will be missed. ❤
Jennifer Valeri
August 25, 2021
Goretti, how blessed and fortunate you and your siblings are to have such a wonderful and loving mother. Most of all, the fact that you had her with you for the last years of her life is something you will treasure. I know your loss of her is great but just think how happy she is to be with her beloved husband and with the Lord. May her sweet soul rest in peace.
Ana Soto
August 25, 2021
Goretti I have no words to console you during this difficult time. I can only give you my deepest condolences to you and your family. Your mom was a very sweet and special woman as I read her life. May God grant you all the peace and strength during this difficult time. I know she’s in heaven resting in peace God blessings to all love you my dear friend
Lea, Lancy, Beverly, Darren & Andra (Mississauga, Canada)
August 25, 2021
Our heartfelt condolences to you Dear Goretti&John, Margarette&Charles, Maju&Glen, Euclidean&Gail. Grand children and family. We are so sorry for the loss of your beloved mother. A. Delila has left a lasting impression with her ever charming smile, gracious dancing, warm hospitality and many accomplishments. She now rests in peace. We share in the sadness of your irreparable loss. God bless you with strength and His love.
Nigel & Theresa Nazareth
August 25, 2021
Dear Maju, Goretti, Margaret and Euclid, Please accept our heartfelt condolences on the passing away of mom. She was a dear lady that we had the pleasure of meeting on 3 or 4 separate occasions after many many years.
Not sure how time has flown by and where the years went... however when we met with mom and dad at the time, it felt good! The love shown to Nigel (and me) was heartfelt. I pray mom meets dad as soon as she enters our heavenly kingdom. May their souls rest in peace. Love, Theresa & Nigel (aka dad's godson)
Thank you,
Nigel & Theresa Nazareth
[email protected]
Mercy Carcasses
August 24, 2021
Goretti and Family,
My deepest condolences on the passing of your dearest matriarch. She was an extraordinary soul and will forever be your angel. May her memory be a blessing to all of you.
Peace, light and much love,
Mercy Carcasses
Charmaine D’Souza
August 23, 2021
Please share the following condolences with the family of Dalila Viegas:
Dearest Euclid/Gail, Maju/Glen, Goretti/John, Margarette/Charles, We are extremely sad to hear of Aunty Dalila’s passing. She was a sweet, kind, loving person and we looked forward to her and uncle Belu’s visits to Phoenix. She was a wonderful friend to my mom and called her regularly. We will miss her very much. She is now in heaven with her beloved family and husband. May her soul Rest in eternal Peace. Sending much love and hugs to all of you for comfort and strength during this difficult time.
Thank you,
Charmaine, Stan and family
Forever in our heart RIP
Raisa Martinez
August 23, 2021
Kristen Collora
August 23, 2021
Dear Goretti and Family,
I'm very sorry for your loss. Dalila sounds like she had a wonderful life with her family and was a blessing to those who knew her. May she rest in peace in California by her beloved husband. I hope your memories will bring you peace at this difficult time.
Jeanette and Anthony Fernandez
August 22, 2021
We are sorry to have learned of your dear Mom's passing. Your Mom and Dad were close friends of my Aunty Ann and Uncle Stan. I remember stopping by your place to and from those early morning walks to St. Pat's church. Also recall that your parents accompanied my brother Noel and myself from Goa to Karachi. Your Mom lived life to the fullest and accomplished so much in her latter years. We wish to pass on our condolences to each and every one of you and your families. May your Mom rest in eternal peace knowing she is so loved by all those whose lives she touched.
Sondra DeBarr
August 21, 2021
What sweet memories I have of going to your mom's apartment and teaching her piano. Her kind sweet smile will be missed. Thank you for sharing the news of her homegoing. She is with the one that she has loved all her life... Jesus
Mariana Garcia
August 20, 2021
Para mi fue una gran bendición ver conocido y ver convivido con una persona tan linda que siempre me regalaba su linda sonrisa y me transmitía una paz interior que solo ella tenía. Me encantaba cuando me pedía que le pintara sus uñas. Ella siempre era muy guapa todo el tiempo que salíamos. Siempre se pintaba sus labios y se miraba muy bonita. Gracias mi linda Doña Dalila por los bellos momentos que me regaló, nunca la olvidaré. Diosito me la tenga en su santa Gloria y junto a Don Velo. En paz descanse la quiero muchísimo.
Margaret Keys
August 20, 2021
Dearest Euclid, Maria (Maju), Goretti & Margarette, grandkids & great grandchildren
My heartfelt condolences to you all from Midgie, Darnell, Jon & Alyssa, Aalayah-Ann & Aaron ❤
Needless to say what a wonderful wife (to Uncle), mother, grandmother and great grandmother as well as a very good family friend your mum was to each & everyone! Memories of all the good times cross my mind often and this always brings a smile to my face. I know that my family too will treasure the short time we spent with your parents in San Franscisco and I feel honored and grateful to have had the opportunity of sharing your ever loving parents with them.
I fondly remember looking forward to walking home with Margarette, knowing that there would be a delicious lunch cooked by your mum; the aromatic fish curry and the crocketts will always bring back those awesome memories of mouth watering Goan cooking! Oh . Those beautiful memories of us going to the beach and spending beautiful times together! I could just go on and on about how wonderful your mum was but I wouldn’t be saying anything you’ll don’t already know! It’s really difficult to lose a parent, very specially a mother but, I know that she will continue to live in your memories and in your hearts , always and forever!
She will never be forgotten and there will be days when you will look up at the night sky and see two beautiful bright stars (U. Belu & A. Viegas - as I so fondly referred to them) together and know that your mum & dad will continue to shine and love you’ll as they always have!
My love to each of you and my continued thoughts and prayers for your mum and dad very specially in these difficult moments.
With sincere Love,
Midgie
Greg & Shirley Krull
August 20, 2021
My heart aches as I write this note. What words do I choose to write about a sweet soul like Aunty Dalila. She was kind, thoughtful and always had sweet kind words to say. I will miss her sweet smile and the happy and positive vibes she sent out each time I was around her. I know in my heart that Heaven has gained another Angel and I can only imagine Aunty & Uncle singing together with the heavenly choir praising God.
To my dearest friend like sister Goretti, and her sisters, Maju, Margaret and brother Euclid; May loving memories of your Mum bring you peace, comfort and strength. My heart is with all of you in your time of sorrow, please accept my heartfelt sympathy for your loss. Praying for peace and strength during this difficult time.
"And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philemon 4:7
"What we have once enjoyed we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us" - Helen Keller
"A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It bring us together again and again." - Maya Angelou
The Narvaez Family Yasser, Kimberly, Jordan & Mason
August 18, 2021
We are all so sad for this loss! We will miss you so much! Your pure honestly was my favorite. You made me laugh with your comments and just so sweet! We will always remember your sweet soul. We love and miss you
Donald & Marie Therese D'Silva
August 18, 2021
Our heartfelt condolences to the entire family on the passing of your dear mom. May God give you'll the strength during this difficult time. May her soul rest in peace
Margaret D'souza
August 18, 2021
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always. May she rest in peace
Maria Sanchez
August 17, 2021
When I think of Ms Dalila, I think of her wonderful facial expression she had, and it was her smile. She was kind, generous, and thoughtful. She was kind with her words, and always very welcoming. She was kind to my children when I would bring them with me to do her bi-weekly cleaning, and always very understanding. She understood my needs as a mother and was always very flexible with my circumstances. Her generosity and consideration taught me a lot. It taught me that even the smallest gestures could make a difference in anyone's life. I remember when she had to move out of town, her and her husband Mr.Peter, called me one afternoon letting me know of their move and they were not sure what they would do with some of their belongings and they said they thought of me. They asked if I would like to take in a furniture piece that was in great condition but couldn't keep. They felt really comfortable with me taking it and knew I'd take really good care of it. To them if was a small gesture, but to me it meant a lot. To this day, I still have it, and I'm very appreciative. It feels great to still have a peice of them in my home to remember them by. She was thoughtful when she gave me extra food for my family. It made a difference in my home. Overall, it was the small things that she did to make a wonderful difference in my life. I will always remember her gentle smile, her caring gestures, and Mr.Peters refined personality. They will always be in my heart.
Glenda Buyo
August 17, 2021
Love her smile . That is always the way I will remember her.
My deepest condolences.
Love,
Dr. Glenda Buyo
Gavin Mendes
August 17, 2021
We are blessed to have known Tia Dalila during her visits to Goa.
My most heartfelt condolences to all the family.
Remembering her wonderful and gentle soul will forever remain in our hearts. May she rest in peace!
Judy Extross
August 17, 2021
Dearest Euclid, Marju, Goretti, Margaret,
My deepest condolences.
I’ll always remember Aunty Dalila, she was such a lovely lady, with a wonderful beaming smile. Her hands and feet always adorned with nice dark nail polish! I don’t know why she tolerated all of us coming to her house (especially at lunch time), relishing her food -I remember the pulao with the goa sausages, her specialty!, but somehow, she did! She was very good natured and I never ever saw her annoyed. She will be fondly remembered.
May Aunty Rest in Peace with her beloved Belu.
Much love and hugs to you all.
Judy
Sally Charleston
August 16, 2021
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Susan deSouza
August 16, 2021
My condolences to all of you on the passing of your dear Mother. Reading her obituary, she was an accomplished lady who lived life to the fullest, while raising four wonderful children. May your good memories of Delila comfort you in your grief, and may she rest in eternal peace!
Charmaine and Lynn Soares
August 16, 2021
Dear Euclidis, Maju, Goretti, Margarette and Families.
We were saddened to hear about Aunty Dalila's demise. Our deepest sympathies to the entire family.
We met Aunty in Dubai when she visited you along with Uncle and found her to be a very pleasant person.
Stay strong Goretti and cherish her memories.
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371 NW 136th Ave NW 136th Ave at NW 2 Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33325
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