Gilbert A. Couto

Gilbert A. Couto, a lifelong resident of Fairhaven, Massachusetts, passed away on February 16, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on June 13, 1941, in Fairhaven, Gilbert was a dedicated and respected member of his community.

Gilbert was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, having served 6 years, with stations in New York and Paris, France. He retired from AFC Cable Manufacturing as an accountant and previously worked as a controller at Dartmouth Building Supply and at John I. Paulding.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Ilda M. (Teixeira) Couto, whom he tenderly cared for during her 10-year illness. Gilbert was also preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Mary (Albino) Couto, and his siblings, Rosemary Teixeira, Joseph Couto, Maryanne Gregory, and Jude Couto.

He is survived by his daughter, Rosemary Galanek and her husband David of New Bedford, and his son, Anthony Couto and his wife Diane of Fairhaven. Gilbert was a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren, Justin Costodio, Meghan Allen and her boyfriend Gary Miranda, Katelynn Couto, Taylor Allen, Samantha Couto, Nathaniel Couto, Brian Galanek and his wife Lexcy, and Breanna Galanek. He also leaves behind five great-grandchildren, Harley Costodio, Westin Coelho, Wyatt Galanek, Logan Galanek, and Emma Miranda. Gilbert is also survived by his brothers, David Couto and his wife Helena of Fairhaven, Tony Couto and his wife Maureen of Carver, and Michael Couto and his wife Debbie of Fairhaven, as well as many nieces and nephews. He cherished the companionship of his beloved cat, Peanut.

Gilbert was a graduate of Fairhaven High School and received his bachelor's degree from Bryant College. He was an active member of his community, serving as a member of the Our Lady of Angels Catholic Association in Fairhaven, where he was also the treasurer. A communicant of St. Mary's Church in Fairhaven, he sang in the choir and ushered on Sundays. Gilbert was a Fairhaven town meeting member, a member of the Fairhaven finance committee, a Fairhaven Little League coach, and was involved in the Fairhaven High School band.

In his personal life, Gilbert enjoyed watching football and baseball, loved listening to music, especially country music, and took pleasure in walking every day. He was devoted to attending his grandchildren's activities and sporting events, always supporting them with enthusiasm and pride.

Gilbert A. Couto will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his service to his country, and his commitment to his community. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and service.

His Funeral will be held on Monday, February 24, 2025 at 9:30 am from the Rock Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:30 am in St. Mary’s Church, Main St., Fairhaven. Burial in Pine Grove Cemetery. Visiting hours Sunday 2-6 pm.

Flowers welcome or donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association MA Chapter, 309 Waverly Oaks Rd., Waltham, MA 02452 or www.alz.org

For online tributes, please visit: www.rock-funeralhome.com