Richard Freitas, 62, of Gilroy died peacefully on Friday, December 10, 2010, at his home surrounded by his family and friends after a courageous battle with cancer for the past year.
Richard is survived by his wife Mafalda of 38 years who loved him dearly, his two loving daughters and their spouses, Beatriz and Mario Sousa of Gilroy and Marleen and Richard Vieira of Gilroy.
He was the proud grandfather to Richard, Kathleen, Isabella and Kayla. He is also survived by his brother and spouse, John and Anna Freitas of Gustine, nephews John and Adlena Freitas of Gustine and by many relatives and friends throughout California, Canada and the Azores.
He was born to the late John and Isabel Freitas, on Sep. 5, 1948, in the island of Sao Jorge, Azores, Portugal. Richard relocated to the United States with his family at the age of 10. When he was 18, Richard was drafted to the US Army and served his country in Vietnam from 1968 to 1970. He returned to his homeland where he fell in love and married his wife Mafalda on July 29, 1972 before relocating to Gilroy, CA in 1973.
Richard worked in drywall for the majority of his career. He was a past president of the IFDES Holy Ghost Lodge and member of the Our Lady of Fatima organization of Gilroy. The joys of Richard’s life were his family and to be around people. He enjoyed playing drums in his band, music, and cooking for his family and friends.
He was the love of one woman’s life, a hero and everything to his daughters, a dearly loved brother, a great friend to so many, and an impactful acquaintance to a countless amount of others. Richard was loved by many and will be missed dearly.
Family and friends will gather for the Vigil, Dec. 17, 2010, at 4:30 P.M. followed by the Rosary at 6:00 P.M. both at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 11 First Street, Gilroy. Funeral Mass will be Saturday, Dec. 18, 2010 at 2:00 P.M. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Gilroy. Burial will follow at Gavilan Hills Memorial Park. Condolences and Information at habingfamilyfuneralhome.com.
