Obituaries

Francisco Garcia DaCosta, 83, of Union City, California, passed away on November 30th due to complications from cardiovascular disease.

Francisco grew up in the Azores Islands, Portugal, on the island of Pico, and worked as a shop keeper on the island of Faial. He immigrated with his wife and 2 young children to the United States in 1967, and soon grew his family with the addition of two more children. Within a few days after arrival to the US, he secured employment at U.S. Pipe & Foundry in Union City, where he worked for 36 years before retiring. His position as a quality assurance manager brought him satisfaction, and he was valued for his strong work ethic.

In addition to his love of family, he pursued a deep passion to maintain connection to his Azorean roots. He was a successful radio broadcaster, growing his weekly Portuguese language program on KRVE entitled “Asas do Atlantico” (Wings over the Atlantic). He offered news from the Azores and musical selections, and excerpts from Portuguese soccer games, especially those involving his beloved Benfica team. The program also allowed him to support the Azorean community, both in California and the Azores. After a devastating earthquake in the island of Faial in 1980, he provided crucial communication and organized donations to be sent to the Azores. His visibility in the Azorean community throughout California brought invitations to act as master of ceremonies at traditional Portuguese festivals for many years. He was adored for his outgoing and personable manner.

He was a loving husband to his wife, Maria, as well as a wonderful father to his 4 children, Fernando, Cecilia, Linda, and Elizabeth, and a loving grandfather to his 10 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. His favorite saying was “better days are coming”, which guided his life with positivity and smiles for all, even in the face of difficult circumstances.

Any donations can be made in Francisco’s honor to St. Jude hospital for Children, and to the non-profit Soccer Without Borders.