Bernardino "Ben" Puim de Andrade

It is with heavy hearts that we share the peaceful passing of Bernardino “Ben” de Andrade on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at the age of 88. Ben passed away at St. Andrew’s Terrace, where he had lived for several years, after a long journey with dementia.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 63 years, Ines (née Barros), his daughter Fatima and her husband Brian Levy, and his sister Virginia Resendes of Santa Maria, Azores, Portugal. He was predeceased by his parents, Manuel and Joaquina, and his siblings Miguel, Manuel, Emilia, Maria, Jose, and Antonio. He will be deeply missed by his extended family, and everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Born in Portugal, Ben later settled in Cambridge, where he built a life centered around hard work, family, and simple joys. Over the years, he worked as a gardener, zookeeper, and in construction, always with capable hands and a quiet determination. He could fix just about anything and was never one to sit still for long.

Ben had a deep love for gardening. His rose bushes were beautiful, and his vegetable gardens were legendary, feeding his family year-round with what he grew. Even after moving to St. Andrew’s Terrace, he continued to care for the gardens there, sharing the fruits (and vegetables) of his labour with the residents and staff.

He loved his food, enjoyed watching soccer and the news, and had a soft spot for comedies and action movies. Ben was a man of few words but many talents, always kind, always steady, and always giving. He didn’t need much to be happy, just good company, a full garden, and something to keep his hands busy.

Visitation will take place at Coutts Funeral Home, 96 St. Andrews Street on Monday, May 5, 2025, from 10:00 -11:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel. Ben will be laid to rest at Parklawn Cemetery in Cambridge.

He’ll be remembered for his quiet strength, his green thumb, and the love he gave so freely. His legacy will continue to bloom in the gardens he tended and the hearts he touched.