Antonio N. Martins

New Bedford- Antonio N. Martins, aged 75, died, Sunday, April 14, 2013 with his family by his side after a long battle with cancer. He was the husband of Ana (Gomes) Martins of New Bedford, whom he was married to for 54 years and was the son of the late Leopoldina (Nogueira) and Francisco Martins Dos Santos. Antonio was born in Alcobaca, Portugal and moved to New Bedford in 1972. Before moving to the states, Mr. Martins worked as a head Maitre D at the Hotel da Nazare, from there he went on to work in France at the same position. In 1972 he moved to the U.S. with his family. He worked as a machine operator at Berkshire Hathaway. He then became the Proprietor and head chef of several restaurants in the New Bedford area, including, Octavio’s, Golden Key, Cas-Mar and Seagulls until he retired in 1999 at the age of 61. Antonio was a fun loving man who enjoyed watching soccer, playing cards and dominos, but especially enjoyed spending quality time with his family and friends.
He is survived by his wife Ana, and his children; Jorge Nogueira and his wife Lynn of Westport, Michael and Antonio Martins both of New Bedford, Sandra Fernandes and her husband Joe of Dartmouth, Elizabeth Calheta and her husband Joe of New Bedford, Nelson Martins and his wife Julie of New Bedford. He loved and adored his many grandchildren; Jacob, Brittney, Nathan, Brenden, Andrew, Kyle, Lily, Matthew, Mia and Nicholas. He is also survived by his siblings, Maria do Ceu Francisco, Avelino Martins and Joaquim Dos Santos. He was also loved by several nieces, nephews and cousins.
The family would like to give a special thank you to the staff at Brandon Woods of Dartmouth and to New England Hospice for their loving care and support.
Mr. Martins’ funeral will be at the Perry Funeral Home 111 Dartmouth St. on Thursday, April 18th, at 9:30 A.M. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church at 10:30 A.M. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Visiting hours will be Wednesday from 5-8 P.M. Relatives and friends are invited.