It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of João De Deus Vieira Botelho, affectionately known as John, who passed away peacefully on September 5th, 2025, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. He was 77 years old and surrounded by his loving family at the time of his passing.
John was born on May 22, 1948, in Água de Pau, São Miguel Island, in the Açores, Portugal. In 1973, he embarked on a new journey, immigrating to Canada to marry the love of his life, Maria Lurdes Botelho. Together, they built a life grounded in love, hard work, and family — values that John held dear every day of his life.
A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, John is survived by his beloved wife Maria Lurdes, his sons Mark and Walter Botelho, and his cherished granddaughter Olivia Botelho.
John worked as a pipe layer in civil construction for Chew Excavating, where he was known and respected for his deep knowledge, unwavering work ethic, and willingness to lend a hand to colleagues. His reliability and dedication made him a sought-after tradesman and a trusted friend.
Known for his witty humor, kind heart, and generous spirit, John always put family first. Whether he was helping a neighbor, offering advice, or beautifying his meticulously maintained yard — a source of pride and joy — John gave his all. He brought warmth, strength, and laughter to every room he entered.
John was deeply devoted to his faith, which guided the way he lived and served others. He lived out his beliefs by volunteering faithfully at church — assisting as an usher, and welcoming others as a greeter.
John leaves behind a legacy of compassion, strength, and hard work. His boisterous presence, unwavering loyalty, and genuine kindness will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 17th at 1:30 PM, at McCall Gardens – Sequoia Centre, located at 4665 Falaise Drive. Interment will follow at Royal Oak Burial Park, with a reception for family and friends afterwards at McCall Gardens – Sequoia Centre.
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memories and stories that celebrate John’s life and the many lives he touched.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
This obituary is the property of the “Botelho” family and may not be reproduced, distributed, or altered in any way without prior written consent.
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Eli and Dave
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Ana Massa My sincerest condolences to the Botelho family. Seeing John’s warm smile and enthusiasm on Sunday morning at church while greeting us was always something I looked forward to. He is with our Lord and Saviour which is the blessed assurance we live for here on earth. Although it’s a time of sorrow and sadness we rejoice in knowing John has gone to his heavenly home and probably will continue on greeting people home.
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Lucy So very sorry to hear of John’s passing.
Prayers for all the family. May God wrap you all in his arms and comfort you.
Lucia Ferreira & Family
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Jason My sincere condolences to Maria and family. I met John at Chew Excavating. We work together for over 12 years. He was always a hard-working, knowledgeable, coworker, and friend. He taught me so much over the years that we work together and those lessons will always live on through me and I teach other people the same lessons one of those lessons are to have fun while you work my thoughts and prayers are with you
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Dalila and John Reimer Praying God’s comfort for you all as you get used to life without Tio Joao. He had a big personality and we neices and nephews will remember his teasing and laughter. I remember as a kid, Tio coming to Victoria and his adorable reaction to seeing snow for the first time. I think it was him who came up with the nickname Joao de Lada for my husband, John. He owned a very uncool yellow Russian Lada car. My John was quickly introduced to the joking, teasing, laughing family dynamic of a big Portuguese family! God bless you all. We will meet again, one day!
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Heather McDonald John was a dear friend. I will always appreciate him for seeking out Rob every Sunday morning and spending time with him. He helped by encouraging Rob to usher and made him feel needed. I am so sorry and my prayers are with Maria and family but what a reassurance we can have that one day we will meet him in glory.
God bless.
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Julie ( Achadinha) Beer To the Botelho family
I want to express my deepest sympathy and condolences on the loss of your beloved husband, father and grandfather.
I remember going to Glad Tidings Church and John would always greet me and welcome me when I arrived at church. As we were both Portuguese he knew my family.I will never forget his kindness towards me. I live in a different province so I can’t attend his funeral. May God give you strength, peace and comfort during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you!
Julie ( Achadinha) Beer
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Martha Dick Maria & family,
My sincere condolences to you all.
May God comfort you with peace that passes all understanding.
John was always such a friendly greeter to everyone!
God bless,
Martha Dick.
Dear Maria and family
Our sincere condolences… we are saddened to learn of John’s passing.
We enjoyed John’s friendship and witty sense of humour.
God bless you all.
Eli and Dave