Mr. Reinaldo Ramos Neves

He leaves behind his loving wife of 57 years, Gracinda, 3 children, Paulo (Renee), Nelson (Teresa) and Lucy (Richard) as well as 5 grandchildren, Anthea, Mateo, Ryan, Lucas and Tahmina.

Reinaldo, or Ray as he was known by neighbours and coworkers was born in Aradas, Aveiro Portugal on June 14, 1944. He had a tough upbringing with his dad passing away when he was just 3 years old, leaving him behind along with his mother and 3 siblings.

In his early years, he got his first break at a well known automobile repair shop thanks to his mother. He learned auto mechanics and was a car mechanic by trade in Portugal but that soon changed. With the war of independence going on in Angola, his mom and himself were worried he would be called up to the army to serve, so he fled to France like many young men did. While in France, a train company took him under their wing and taught him the art of welding, making railroad cars.

He returned to Portugal and married his wife, Gracinda in 1967 and immigrated to Vancouver, Canada in 1968. In the span of 10 years, they had 3 children, Paulo, Nelson and Lucy.

His love for welding continued when he came to Vancouver. He went to BCIT to get certified. Years later, his eldest son, Paulo was asked if his dad was “Ray Neves” when Paulo had an interview with the Welding Program at BCIT himself. The BCIT Head Instructor of Welding said, “In all my years of being Head Instructor here at BCIT, your father always passed every and all welding tests without any defects or weaknesses. Your father is the BEST welder I have ever seen.” Paulo was floored to hear this about his dad but was also so very proud.

Later on, Reinaldo became a Millwright at various sawmills installing, maintaining, and repairing industrial machinery and equipment.

He was hardworking and sacrificed a lot, for which his family will remain eternally grateful.

He loved his vegetable garden, fixing things around the house, welding things, watching sports, wine making, taking his grandsons to preschool, helping his kids and spending time with his family.

Dad, you are loved and missed. We will never forget you and you’ll always be in our hearts.

We know you’ll be watching over us.

You are now free from all pain and suffering. Until we meet again. Rest in Peace.

We love you so much, Dad!

Services for Mr. Reinaldo Neves are scheduled for Tuesday April 1st, 2025. Please see below for time and location for each event.

In memory of Mr. Reinaldo Neves, the family will have a Rosary prayer service at Our Lady of Fatima, 1423 East 13th Avenue, Vancouver BC, V5N 2B5 at 10:00 am.

Immediately following the Rosary prayer, the Mass of Catholic Burial will take place from 10:30 am to 11:30 am, also at Our Lady of Fatima, 1423 East 13th Avenue, Vancouver BC, V5N 2B5.

An entombment service will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, 3789 Royal Oak Ave, Burnaby, BC V5G 4A9, at 12:00 pm and conclude at approximately 12:45 pm.

The family of Mr. Reinaldo Neves is incredibly thankful for all the words and comfort and kindness during such a difficult time. Thank you for being with us.