AMERICO TOME

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AMERICO TOME Unexpectedly on April 19, 2012 Americo Tomé passed away on what was to be his final trip back home to Portugal. He was predeceased by his parents (Antonio and Maria Lurdes) and brothers (Manuel and Anibal). Left to cherish his memory are his wife Ilda, sons Luis (Barb), George (Stefania), granddaughters Stephanie and Giulia, his surviving sisters Ilda (Virgilio) in Winnipeg and Lourdes (Manuel) in Portugal along with numerous nephews and nieces in Winnipeg and Portugal. Dad was one of the first Portuguese immigrants that came to Manitoba in 1957. He first lived in Northern Manitoba working for Inco before settling in Winnipeg in 1962. In Winnipeg Dad worked for CN before deciding to start his own business in 1964. Together with Mom, they opened the first Portuguese grocery store located at 477 William Ave. This was to be the family business in various locations throughout Winnipeg until the last store on Sargent and Beverly in 1984. In the Portuguese Community he will mostly be remembered for Americo's Supermarket located at 930 Notre Dame Ave. Dad was one of the founding members of the Portuguese Association of Manitoba which began in 1966. In his 55 years in Canada Dad never forgot his birthplace of Amieira, Portugal and always made a point of going back to see his family. He enjoyed his annual trips and gathering with family and friends. He never forgot his heritage and passed that passion on to his sons. One of his final wishes was granted when he was laid to rest with his parents and brothers in Amieira Portugal. We will miss you, may you rest in peace. A mass in memory of Americo will be held on Thursday, May 24, 7:00 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Parish on 181 Austin St. North.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 19, 2012