Joseph Manuel Arruda

Joseph Manuel Arruda ("Joe"), 66, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2026 after a four and a half year battle with stage 4 lung cancer, surrounded by his wife, Dawn, and loved ones at Gulfside Hospice Center in New Port Richey, Florida.

José Manuel Arruda was born on October 22, 1959, on the island of São Miguel in the Azores, Portugal.

Joe and his family immigrated to the United States in February 1965, arriving in snow-covered Boston, Massachusetts. His family included his parents, José and Teresa Arruda; his siblings, Maria, Catarina, and Durval Arruda; and his beloved avó, Gloria Arruda.

The family settled in the quintessential seaside town of Fairhaven, Massachusetts, where Joe graduated from Fairhaven High School in 1978. Joe loved Fairhaven and enjoyed all things related to the sea-boating, fishing, and especially quahogging and lobstering along Buzzards Bay. He loved making his famous clam boils and was a true grill master, always happiest when surrounded by family and friends.

Throughout the years, Joe worked for several prominent insurance companies as a subject matter expert in automobile appraisals. He later became a trainer, sharing his knowledge throughout Massachusetts, Maine, and Florida.

Joe was grateful to be retired and living in the Sunshine State, where he enjoyed spending time with family and friends.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Dawn R. Arruda (Harris); their children and grandson; his father, José Arruda; his siblings; several nieces and nephews; and his loyal best friend, Duke.

He was predeceased by his mother, Teresa Arruda.

Joe will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, sense of humor, and deep love for family, friends, and the sea. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, hard work, and cherished memories.

Per Joe's wishes, services will be private.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Florida Cancer Specialist.