on the beautiful island of Funchal, Madeira.
In 1958, Dora was just 18 years old when her and her sister, Guida, sought a new and fulfilling life in the United States of America. Upon their arrival to the United States, they stayed with family in the East Coast; from there, their journey continued to be reunited with their father. In 1959, they continued West to San Diego, California
Dora and Guida’s journey continued, and they made their way north to Santa Clara, California where they would connect with Tia Fernandes and later reconnect with their mother, Aurora Fernandes.
Shortly after Dora’s arrival, she received her first job at one of the world’s largest apparel companies called Levis Strauss. Many lifetime friends were made there, including a gentleman named Alfred Falcao.
Alfred’s brother in-law, Joe Rocha, was best friends with Dora’s soon to be husband, Joe DeOliveira. Dora and Joe were introduced to one another on December 7th, 1962 at a Levis Strauss company Christmas party. How Fate would find it, 13 days later, Dora and Joe tied the knot in civil court on December 20, 1962.
A few months later, on February 17, 1963, Dora and Joe arranged for an official wedding ceremony at Five Wounds Catholic Church in San Jose where they declared their love for one another before the hand of God. Dora and her husband’s marriage was a blessing.
Their only son George was born on April 27th, 1964. This was one of many milestones for Dora and her family. In March of 1966, Dora and Joe purchased their first house on Monroe Street in Santa Clara, a new place to call home and the American dream. They resided in Santa Clara for 60 years but still managed to visit family back in Portugal over the years.
Dora continued her career at HP where she worked for the next 25 years. Not only was she dedicated to her work and extended family, but she valued her community. Dora was an active member for the S.E.S. Hall, Luso America, the Our Lady of Fatima Society, the Santa Clara Filarmonica, and the Santa Clara Sporting Soccer Club. As retirement approached, Dora decided to devote her time to taking care of her two beautiful granddaughters. Dora is survived by her husband Joe, her son George, her two granddaughters Amanda and Analise, her sister Guida, Guida’s three Children, Fatima, Michael and Manuel, as well as many more grandnieces, one grandnephew, and a precious newborn great-grandniece!
The love Dora had for her family and the people in her life will be remembered forever. Her smile, her laugh, and her vivacious spirit will be greatly missed. May she forever rest in Gods Divine Hands and Love. Amen
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