Maria do Céu dos Santos Miguens Ferreira

Maria do Céu dos Santos Miguens Ferreira passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, with her family by her side, at the age of 81 years.

She was born on November 29, 1942 in Unhais da Serra, Portugal. In May 1972, Maria emigrated from Portugal to Calgary, Alberta, Canada with her husband Antonio and two eldest children, Carlos and Anabela – while pregnant with her third child, Nelia. She would later go on to welcome her fourth child – daughter Fatima, three years later.

Maria will be lovingly remembered by her husband of fifty-eight years, Antonio Ferreira; son, Carlos (Ursula); daughters, Anabela (Chris), Nelia, and Fatima (Frank); as well as her five grandchildren, Marina, Nicole, Olivia, Sofia and Tristan. Maria will also be missed by her siblings, Americo dos Santos and Carlos (Luisa) Miguens, all of Calgary, AB, Fernanda (Jamie) Mouro of Edmonton, AB, Otilia do Santos Miguens of Portugal, as well as many other family and friends. 

Maria was predeceased by her parents, Maria Conceição dos Santos and Alfredo Pereira Miguens; sister, Laurinda Barata; Sister, Ermelinda dos Santos Barata; Brother-in-law, Fernando Barata; brother, João Miguens; and sister-in-law, Perpetua dos Santos.

Maria was a hard worker her entire life, both inside and outside the home. She worked at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 275 with her husband for almost forty years before finally retiring at the age of 79. During that time and up until her devastating death, Maria kept the family household running, always making sure everyone’s needs were met while often neglecting her own. 

Maria attended church every Sunday at the Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, as her faith was a very important part of her life. After each mass, she enjoyed catching up with family and friends that had also attended.

Maria loved gardening. She spent countless hours making sure her flowers and plants looked perfect. 

More than anything, Maria enjoyed spending time with her family. Every Sunday, the family would gather and she would serve everyone a wonderful lunch. She loved and cherished her family more than anything – especially her 5 beautiful grandchildren, whom she was so incredibly proud of.

She will be truly missed.