Obituary for Antonio Martins Fonseca
Antonio “Kennedy” Martins Fonseca Sr., known to his loved ones as Tony, unexpectedly passed away at his home in Ludlow, MA, on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at the age of 74. He was born on June 3, 1949, in Baldio Alcobaca, Portugal and he leaves behind a trail of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Tony was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Tony will be remembered with endless love by his soulmate of 48 years of marriage, Zita Jorge Fonseca, and his children, Antonio Jr. Fonseca and his wife, Susan, Kevin Fonseca, and Heather Gomes and her husband, Ron. Adored by his grandchildren, Lilly, Ella, and Maddie Fonseca; Matthew and Jonathan Fonseca, and Jalen, Tayson, and Capri Gomes, his legacy lives on through them. He also leaves behind his brother, Jose Fonseca, his sisters, Maria Helena Balbino (Fernando) and Domitilia Balbino (Antonio), and a host of other beloved family members. Tony was preceded in death by his parents, Jose and Herminia Fonseca, his in-laws, Joao and Gloria Jorge, his sister-in-law, Emilia Fonseca, his nephew, David Balbino, and his best friend, Nelson Lamas, along with other cherished uncles and aunts. But let's talk about Tony's true passion – his family. In 2019, he embarked on an epic adventure to Portugal with his beautiful wife, their three amazing children, and adoring grandkids – a total of 15 of them traveled through 11 cities in Portugal and Spain. Together, they created a lifetime of moments filled with laughter and a deeper connection to their family roots. Tony's home was always filled with love and joy, especially during holidays, where he hosted gatherings with enough food and drink to feed an army, that brought together generations of family and friends. When Tony wasn’t tearing up the dance floor of life, he dedicated his time to a successful career at Uniroyal in Chicopee and Holyoke DPW until his retirement in 2011. From tireless work to tire inspections, Tony knew how to make a mark in his profession, appearing in The Republican every year as he painted shamrocks along the path for the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day parade. Tony was a proud member of the Gremio Lusitano and Portuguese American Citizens Club and a devoted member of Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Ludlow. When he wasn't busy busting moves, Tony enjoyed playing bocce, card games, and watching classic movies and home videos with his family. You can always find him on Sunday’s going through the paper while listening to our local Portuguese radio station sipping on a Martini or glass of vinho. Whether he
was at home or on vacation, Tony's smile shined brightest when surrounded by his loved ones. Tony leaves behind a legacy that will keep the dance floor of our hearts moving for generations to come. So, let's raise a glass, put on our dancing shoes, and celebrate the life of a man who knew how to live it up and was the last guest to leave the party. His presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in eternal peace. Funeral services in honor of Tony will be held on Monday, October 2, 2023, at 9am at Ludlow Funeral Home, located in Ludlow. A mass will follow at 10:00 am at Our Lady of Fatima Parish, with burial taking place in Saint Aloysius Cemetery, Indian Orchard, Springfield. Visiting hours are on Sunday from 3-6 pm, providing an opportunity for loved ones to pay their respects.
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Previous Events
Visitation
Sunday
1
Oct
3:00 PM
- 6:00 PM
Ludlow Funeral Home
432 East St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Funeral Liturgy
Monday
2
Oct
10:00 AM
Our Lady of Fatima Parish
438 Winsor Street
Ludlow, MA 01056
Cemetery Details
Location
St. Aloysius Cemetery
1273 Berkshire Avenue
Indian Orchard, Ma 01151
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