Mario Jorge Oliveira, 66, of Heber Springs, Arkansas, passed away on August 3, 2023. Born on February 4, 1957, in Ponta Delgada, Portugal, Mario was a self-made, hardworking, and fun-loving man. He never met a stranger and loved being the center of attention.
Mario is survived by his sister, Maria Soares of Fall River, Massachusetts; brother, Carlos Oliveira of Fall River, Massachusetts; daughters, Stacey Lee Gonsales of Fall River, Massachusetts, and Nichole Mercer Oliveira of East Providence, Rhode Island; son, Joshua Oliveira of Fall River, Massachusetts; grandchildren, Hearteyona, Demetrius, Davon, and Hannah; and great-grandchild, AvaLeigh. He was preceded in death by his mother, Maria Jose Vieira; his father, Jorge de Oliveira; and son, Mario Junior Oliveira.
Mario received his education at Ponta Delgada, Portugal, and Fall River, Massachusetts, where he attended primary and high school. He served in the U.S. Army National Guard from 1979 to 1985.
Throughout his career, Mario was a self-employed Arkansas business owner of Oliveira Construction, specializing in roofing and drywall for over 30 years. He also worked as a commercial fisherman on various deep-sea commercial ships in New Bedford, catching lobsters, crabs, clams, and more. In the late 80s, he worked on a California dairy farm, tending to cattle and operating milking machines.
Mario attended Catholic and Protestant churches for worship. He enjoyed wood crafting, hunting, fishing, camping, and watching soccer World Cup matches. He was a devoted fan of NASCAR #24 and the Miami Dolphins football team. Mario was an active member of the American Legion and served as the SGT of Arms officer for Post 64 in Heber Springs. He was widely known for his catchphrase, “your mudda was your fahdda,”
A memorial service for Mario will be held on November 5, 2023, at the American Legion Post #64, Bingo Hall, in Heber Springs, Arkansas. The time for the service will be determined at a later date and will be posted at this website closer to the date of the service. The service will include a military ceremony to honor his service, followed by a Celebration of Life slideshow. Family and friends are invited to join for food, fellowship, and reminiscing.
Mario Jorge Oliveira will be deeply missed by all who know him. His unique personality, hard work, and love for life will be remembered and cherished forever.
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