North Providence - Manuel Marques Violante,91, known affectionately as Manuel to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 30, 2026, at Berkshire Place in Providence, surrounded by his family. Born on March 4, 1934, in the scenic village of Pinheiro de Bemposta, Portugal, he was a son of the late Manuel and Francelina (Pires) Violante. Manuel embodied the very essence of a life well-lived, filled with love, hard work, and an unwavering faith.
Manuel's journey led him from the cobblestone streets of his hometown to the vibrant community of North Providence in 1960, after previously residing in Pawtucket. His dedication to his craft as a construction worker spanned over three decades, contributing to the skylines and infrastructures with the Forte Brothers Construction and Campanella Cardi companies. His work ethic and skill were a testament to his character, and his hands helped shape the world around him.
Beyond his professional life,after the passing of his first wife Maria Da Conceicao Violante, Manuel, later found love again with his second wife, Natalia A. (Clemente) Violante. Together, they raised a loving family, including their son Avelino M. Violante and his wife Hilda of North Providence, and their daughter Dolores Borges and her husband Jose of Seekonk. Manuel's legacy extended to his siblings, being the brother of Maria Pires DaSilva Violante of Portugal. He took great joy in his role as an uncle to Manuel and Fernando Martins. His warmth and guidance were a beacon for his grandchildren Kimberly and her husband Roger, Daniel and his wife April, Alexandrea and her husband Duane, and Katrina and her husband Justin, and he delighted in the laughter of his great-grandchildren Benjamin, Charlotte, Juliette, Jace, and Winnie.
A man of faith, Manuel was a longstanding parishioner of St. Anthony Church since 1960. His commitment to his faith was evident in his role as one of the founding members of the Holy Spirit Society. His involvement with the Club Social Portuguese, Uniao Portuguesa Beneficente, and Cavaqueiros reflected his love for his cultural heritage and his passion for community service.
Manuel’s interests were as rich and diverse as the life he led. He found solace in the simplicity of gardening, joy in the tradition of making Portuguese wine, and pride in visiting his beloved Portugal. Yet, nothing compared to the time spent surrounded by his family, where his love and wisdom were most profoundly felt.
Those who knew him will remember Manuel as the embodiment of a handy, loving, and faith-filled man. His hands not only built structures but also cultivated a garden of love that will continue to flourish in the hearts of all who knew him. Manuel Marques Violante’s story is one of a journey from humble beginnings to a life that will be celebrated by generations to come. He has left an indelible mark on this world, and while he may be gone, his spirit will live on in the memories and the lives of his cherished family and friends.
His funeral will be held on Thursday at 8:30am from the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, 901 Broadway, East Providence, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am in St. Anthony Church, 32 Lawn Avenue, Pawtucket. Burial will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 550 Wampanoag Trail East Providence.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday from 4:00pm-7:00pm in the funeral home.
www.rebellofuneralhomes.com.
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