Maria was born to parents Jose and Ana du Duarte in the village of Fajãzinha on the island of Flores, Acores Portugal. She immigrated to Canada in November 1957.
Due to frigid Canadian temperatures, they continued their journey to Richmond, BC with her beloved husband, Roberto. They worked very hard to build their home in Burnaby which she loved and continued to live independently after his death in 1995; her last thoughts were in this home that she loved. She was known for her amazing cooking, baking, and gardening all while working for 35 years at Burnaby Hospital. She loved entertaining with her many stories of her growing up and challenges with immigrating and journey of creating life. She was an active member and assisted in building the Portuguese Catholic Church, Our Lady of Fatima, Vancouver and the Portuguese Cultural Center, Burnaby. She was helped tremendously by many friends and family.
Many thanks to all her first cousins in the States; Maria Jose, Antonio Martins, Joe Freitas, Norma de Sousa and Tony and John Duarte who although at a distance provided special support in all these years. Much gratitude and appreciation from Maria and her family to Dr. Julia Reynolds for decades of care and support. Maria was predeceased by her parents, husband and brother, João Duarte. She is survived by her sister-in law Maria Duarte and nieces Linda and Victoria and their families.
Maria donated a great deal of financial support to many causes such as the Canadian Cancer Society, Diabetes, Heart and Stroke, Covenant House (to name a few). She will be missed greatly by those who knew and loved her.
Due to COVID restrictions prayers and funeral mass are restricted.
Flowers may be delivered to Ocean View Funeral Home, with donations to the Portuguese Cultural Centre of BC appreciated.
