Herman C. Couto

Herman C. Couto, 86, of New Bedford, Massachusetts, passed away on Sunday, June 15, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
Herman was born to Jose and Maria Couto on December 29, 1938, in São Miguel, Azores. He emigrated to the United States at the age of 7 and was a U.S. citizen by birth through his mother, who was born in Fall River, Massachusetts.
He was a devoted husband to Sheila (Freitas) Couto for 62 years and a loving father to his two children, Scott Couto (partner Charlene Holtzman) and Tina Couto Serpa (fiancé Brian Fletcher). He was a proud grandfather to five grandchildren: Jeffrey Couto (partner Anja Kuss), Alyssa Couto, Kylie Serpa, Katie Serpa, and William Serpa. He was also a cherished great-grandfather to Hudson and Hadley Couto. He also leaves behind his in-laws, Joanne Almeida and Sherrie and Brian Booker, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, and dear friends.
Herman was a jack of all trades, working in a pocketbook factory at a young age, as a truck driver, in construction, and as a maintenance worker, among many other roles throughout his life. Before an industrial accident in December of 1977, he enjoyed camping, fishing, caring for the pool, working on building his own business, and spending time with his children, dogs, and extended family. Summers were especially lively, with the neighborhood kids often gathered at his home, enjoying the pool he maintained with great care while he cooked on the grill for everyone.
In his later years, Herman found joy in gardening, watering flowers, and feeding the birds and squirrels that visited his yard. He enjoyed playing cards on Monday nights with close friends Gilly and Larry and spending time with loved ones. He also deeply loved animals and spent many years breeding and raising Labrador Retrievers.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Herman, and the many animals he loved.
The family thanks Herman's caregivers, especially Charlene Holtzman, Kylie Serpa, and Katie Serpa. They also thank the Southcoast Hospice nurses, whose in-home care gave Herman dignity and comfort in his final days. Special thanks go to his nephew, Ed DaCosta, and his wife, Jill DaCosta, for the comfort, food, and support they provided, also to the St. Julie Billiart Parish Ladies Guild and the many close friends who offered support through their visits, prayers, kind messages, and thoughtful cards.
Calling hours will be held at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, on Monday June 23th from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Julie Billiart Church, 494 Slocum Road, Dartmouth, on Tuesday June 24th at 10:00 a.m. Burial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the St. Julie Billiart Parish Ladies Guild Scholarship Fund. For online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
To send a flower arrangement in memory of
Herman C. Couto, please click here to visit our sympathy store.