Antonio Mariano Frias Soares (Tony)

As the peaceful Hawaiian melody of “Somewhere over the Rainbow” played and the sunshine shone through the window Antonio Mariano Frias Soares as if on wings of eagles flew up to God, to Glory! Antonio went in such peace, in the presence of his loving wife, Heather, and daughter, Lisa, holding his hands. Son Mark and partner Meg, with precious grandson Jakob were great support and comfort, along with extended family.

This precious man came as a 9-year-old boy to Canada from his beloved Azore Island, Sao Miguel. As a new Canadian, he joined in the endeavour for a better life in Canada. I know he proudly achieved that goal. The flowers that bloom at Butchart Gardens will always bring memories of the fondness Tony had for “The Gardens!” He was a mechanic, plumber and maker of specialty parts for family and friends. As for his beloved family he was always there to cheer on their accomplishments.  Especially the road trips for hockey and baseball.  Our holidays touring by car, truck or van were so much fun! Whether at the lake fishing for trout or salmon or his time at Sidney Spit watching the many sunsets or having a good cribbage game. Family and friends were always a phone call away.

Tony never forgot his Portuguese roots, the music, the food, the laughter, and what being a Great host meant!

Becoming Papa (grandpa) was such a life giving, joy-filled time for him. His grandson is named after his Papa, this was a heart proud gift for Tony. For the short time shared between Papa and grandson, Tony taught our grandson Portuguese and the love of a fado song “Chuva!” by Mariza. A touch by God for those times! All the family have been blessed to have had a wonderful loving husband (soul mate), Dad, Brother, Friend, and genuine Portuguese Canadian!

When thinking of Tony, he was creative, whether in the family gardens or playing on his guitar.

All Tony’s family remember trips to Sidney Spit for picnics and salmon fishing. Tony shared the love of the ocean with his sweetheart Heather, a truly peaceful and healing place for them both.

He shared the love of shopping for bargains at thrift stores, finding treasures and trinkets with his loved ones.

If you needed a part for your vehicle or help with your car, Tony would be there. Included with that service would be ‘Shop Talk’ in his marvellous workshop.

Watching the Vancouver Canucks was a joy and frustration at the same time. The Blue Jays winning the pennant this year was such a gift for Tony. Sharing the baseball games on TV with his soul mate Heather was just a given.

Fast cars at Western Speedway and friends that owned classic cars was where Tony would like to be. The love of the family’s animals was front and centre in Tony’s heart. ‘Gracie’, our dachshund, was his service dog, trained by Tony.

When you are in the forest on a hike give a good Tarzan call in memory of Tony as he was the champion of “The Call of The Wild”!

Predeceased by his Mom and Dad, Rosa and Jaime Cunha, niece Christina De Melo, and brother-in-law Petar Zirkovic. He is survived by his wife and sweetheart of 48 years, Heather; adored children Lisa (Menno), Mark (Meg), precious grandson Jakob; his sisters, Maria, Rosa, and Linda (Jerome); brother Jaime, brother-in-law and sister-in-law Thomas and Jacqueline; many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews, and many extended family and friends! Most important! A believer, Tony was in constant prayer for family & friends. His spirit, strength and goodness will be with us in our hearts eternally.

To know how God loved him throughout all his life. Tony shared that with all he met, especially later in life. Tony would want you to know today: God loves you!

A Graveside Service will be held at Royal Oak Burial Park, 4673 Falaise Dr, Victoria, BC on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at 1:15pm. All are welcome! Father Dean Henderson will be officiating.

A Celebration of Life for Antonio Soares will be held in the Prospect Lake Hall, 5358 Sparton Road, Saanich, on Sunday, May 3rd, 2026 from 2:00 – 5:00pm

Condolences may be offered to the family below.

McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com

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