John Francis Branco Fragata

John Francis Branco Fragata, age 81, of Fairhaven, passed away Saturday, February 19, 2011 at his residence. He was the husband of Maria Luisa (Trafaria) Fragata to whom he shared 56 years of marriage.

Born in Gloucester, Massachusetts, a son of the late John M. and Lusitana (Mauricia) Fragata, he lived in Gloucester, New Bedford, and Figueira da Foz, Portugal before moving to Fairhaven in 1963.

A Veteran of the United States Army, he served during the Korean War as Private First Class. As a Commercial Fisherman he skippered “Ocean Spray” and was owner and Captain of Sao Pedro” having worked in the waters of Gloucester, New Bedford, and Fairhaven.

He was a member of the American Legion and enjoyed fishing, swimming, biking, traveling, history, and most of all spending time with his family.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by one daughter Kryztena Ana Fragata of Fairhaven, one son Carlos Trafaria Branco Fragata and his wife Shirley of Plymouth, MA, one sister Lusitana Fragata Beirao of Almada. Portugal, four granddaughters, Heather Frongillo and her husband Robert of Orlando, FL, Solena Morris of Fairhaven, and Amanda and Brianna Fragata both of Plymouth, four great grandchildren, Evan Jardin, Gabriella, Ana-Rose, and Giovanni Frongillo and several nieces and nephews.

His Funeral will be held Thursday, February 24, 2011 at 10:00AM from the WARING-SULLIVAN HOME OF MEMORIAL TRIBUTE at FAIRLAWN 180 Washington St. Fairhaven, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00AM in St. Joseph’s Church 100 Spring St. Fairhaven. Visiting hours Wednesday from 4:00 to 7:00PM. In Lieu of flowers contributions in his honor may be made to the Massachusetts General Hospital 165 Cambridge St. Boston, MA 02114. Burial private.