Arthur Vaz

Passed away peacefully at the Ottawa General Hospital, following a tragic accident, on Thursday, June 13, 2019 at the age of 82 with his beloved wife Maria Rosa Vaz (nee Gomes Da Costa), his son José Vaz (Lise) and his daughter Anne-Marie Vaz (Yves/predeceased Michael)) at his side.

Beloved grandfather of Juliano and Adrien. Seeing them always brought a smile to his face. He was very proud of them regardless of their accomplishments. He mostly wanted them to be happy and healthy.   

Dear brother to Sérafin (Maria), José, Rosa (Manuel). Predeceased by his parents José Maria Vaz and Ana (nee Gomes) as well as his sister Helena (Antonio) and brother Manuel (Fernanda/predeceased Graciete). 

Arthur was born in Portugal, and immigrated to Canada in 1968 after spending 7 years in France. He eventually sponsored other family members. He and Maria Rosa worked hard to forge a life for themselves and their children in Canada.

Before coming to Canada, he worked in Lisbon as a waiter, completed his military service where he learned how to play to accordion, traveled the world on a luxury cruise liner serving the ship’s commander and other officials and worked at a factory.

Early on while he was at school, he had aspired to become a doctor. His teachers had encouraged him since he was a good student. At the time, his humble beginnings and growing up in a Fascist regime would not allow it. However, it did not stop him from pursuing his dreams and to re-invent himself along the way to adapt to the many challenges and opportunities that came his way.

Arthur was an accomplished accordion player. He did not read music. He was able to play any piece of traditional Portuguese music by simply listening to it. We will miss hearing him play.

Arthur was a selfless man who was always ready to help out. He had a sharp sense of humour and enjoyed spending time with this family and friends. He will be profoundly missed by his family and friends but remembered and cherished with love and tenderness.

Arthur supported many great causes throughout his life and was particularly sensitive to those less fortunate. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Food Bank at the Lowertown Community Resource Centre in Ottawa ( http://www.crcbv.ca/donations/ ) / 613-789-3930. .