The Azorean community throughout California lost one of the most talented cantoria singers in the state and throughout the AzoreanSphere. Mr. Manuel Dos Santos was a very gifted cantoria singer and a wonderful person. This message posted on social media by his daughter, Julie, sums up the kind of person he was and how he will always be remembered throughout the entire State and beyond. We extend our condolences to the family and thank Julie for allowing us to share it with our readers. Yet, another light is dimmed in California’s rich cantoria singing tradition, brought over by Azoreans.
A legend has left us today. He was a hardworking provider who taught his family strong work ethics. He was also a charismatic man who loved to entertain his Portuguese community.
There was so much we still wanted to ask, learn, and spend time with him. In his mind, he surely still had more to accomplish. But at some point, he must have understood that the mission God had set out for him was about to be completed. He declined all further curative interventions at the hospital and asked us to take him home. So, we did just that.
We set him up in his favorite spot at home and gave him the best love and care we could. He spent some days eating his favorite foods, watching his favorite shows, and talking with his favorite people, either in person or on the phone.
He passed away peacefully this afternoon, surrounded by his wife and children.
Pai, we’ll tell ourselves that you just flew out of town to sing at another Cantoria….the biggest one ever… with all the other legends. Avó, avô, and Tio Gus proudly sit in the front row. Enjoy and hug them all for us. We miss you, love you, and are so proud to call you our father. Thank you for everything you did for us. Until we meet again…..
Julie Santos (daughter)
A verse by cantoria singer Bruno Oliveira, from his Facebook page.
Recently in Artesia with a visiting cantoria delegation from Praia da Vitória.
Novidades - The Islands and the Diaspora 