Jorge Pinheiro PIRES

It is with very heavy hearts that the family of Jorge Pires, born April 14, 1961, son of Portuguese immigrants Jose and Silveria Pires, announce his passing on April 15, 2019 at the age of 58.

Jorge was the oldest of three boys, and at the brave young age of 25, he chose to stay in Canada when his family migrated backed to Portugal. Jorge was very proud of the country he came from but excited at the opportunities Canada had to offer. He made a life for himself in Sparwood, and over the years has made a few genuine friends, but more importantly, his own little family.

Throughout life Jorge had many adventures. He loved to be outside and explore the back country, always keeping his eyes open for the perfect tree to fall or the shiniest rock to bring home. Over the years Jorge had a few very special pups who had the privilege to be loved by him. Chucky, Gucci and Aevah are lucky to have him now with them all, running and playing carefree.

One thing is for certain - Jorge lived life by his own rules; resisting authority and challenging his family every step of the way. He loved his family deeply but answered to no one. Jorge has left us with a lifetime of memories and good times. We will all miss his charismatic nature and his infectious laugh. The life of the party-, Jorge always got everyone up on the dance floor. Many may remember Jorge from his glory days when he went to Burnaby in 1984 and became a BC Golden Glove boxing champion. Jorge was very proud of this distinction and had planned to train his grandson Kruz. Jorge was a happy, outgoing son, father, husband, brother, uncle, grandpa and friend to all that were lucky enough to know him.

In 2013 he was diagnosed with renal disease and cancer (multiple myeloma). He fought a very long and rough battle. Daily dialysis and frequent hospital visits quickly preoccupied Jorge’s days. Despite his illnesses, Jorge tried his very best to be the husband, father and grandpa we all loved so much. Being sick changed Jorge; he smiled a little less and cried a lot more. It was hard for family and friends to witness. He was fortunate enough to have great nurses and often boasted about them. The family would like to thank Paula and Eloisa at the Sparwood dialysis clinic. We know that you both always made dad comfortable, especially when we were not able to be with him. He is no longer suffering and finally at peace. No more needles, no more appointments, no more pills. He can play soccer, rock out to April Wine, go fishing and puff as many J’s his heart desires.

Jorge is survived by his wife Guylaine Morin, three daughters: Britney (Chris) Naccarato of Elko, Lexie Morin-Pires (Gordy Klein) of Sparwood, and Tanya (Jeremy) Scheers of Calgary. As many might know, Jorge was most passionate about his grandkids; nothing brought him more joy in life. “Papa Jorge” will be incredibly missed by his four treasures: Kruz, Kolby, Jagger and Taylin. Jorge also leaves behind his mother, Silveria Pires, his two younger brothers: Manuel and Fernando Pires and his niece Mafalda and nephew Diogo, all of Portugal, as well as several sisters and brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews throughout BC/ Alberta. Also left to mourn his passing; his very special mother-in- law, Micheline Morin of Sparwood who was there for Jorge from the time his family left Canada. Jorge was loved by many and will be missed by all.

Jorge was predeceased by his father Jose Pires, father-in-law Gilles Morin and sister-in-law Marie Josee Laren.

There will be a private celebration of life held by his family at a later date and a formal service done in Portugal following the return of his remain to his mother.

In lieu of flowers the family ask you donate to either the BC/Alberta Children’s Hospitals or to the SPCA.

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