Aurelio Mendes Pereira

New Bedford – Aurelio Mendes Pereira, age 83, of New Bedford, Massachusetts, passed away on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at St Lukes Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of Cesaltina (Governo) Pereira.

Aurelio was born in the beautiful town of Melo, Gouveia, Portugal, to the late Amalia (Mendes) Pereira and Alvaro Pereira. Aurelio lived a life marked by hard work, kindness, and joy. He was a dedicated employee at New England Rope Company and Brittany Dye, where he worked as a factory worker for many years. Prior to that, he proudly served as a cook in the Mozambique army, where he shared his love of food and cooking for 50 - 100 men — a passion that would follow him throughout his life. A passion his daughter now follows.

Aurelio’s heart was always close to home, and he cherished his travels back to Portugal. He found peace and joy in gardening, spending time outdoors, and caring for his beloved dog, Emma.

He loved his Portuguese music. In his younger days up until his untimely passing, he loved dancing to Portuguese music. He was a loyal supporter of F.C. Porto. Family was the center of Aurelio’s world. He loved gathering with family and friends, always bringing warmth, laughter to every occasion. Among his greatest joys was being a grandfather—he absolutely adored his grandson, Tyler.

Aurelio is survived by his wife, Cesaltina (Governo) Pereira; daughter, Susana (Pereira) Charbonneau; grandson, Tyler Arruda; brother, Mario Pereira; niece, Maria João Mendes and nephews, John Pereira and João Martins; son-in-law, Christopher Charbonneau.

He was predeceased by João Mendes and Lourdes (Mendes) Garcão;

His visiting hours will take place on Thursday, May 1, 2025 from 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. His funeral service will take place on Friday, May 2, 2025 beginning in the funeral home at 8:00 A.M. Followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church at 10:00 A.M. Burial will immediately follow in Rural Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Perry Funeral Home, 111 Dartmouth Street, New Bedford.