Co-Owner of Tonelli's, Manuel Da Piedade Fernandes Sr., 62, Passed Away

Obituary courtesy of Danbury Memorial

Manuel Da Piedade Fernandes Sr., 62 of Brookfield CT, passed away on April 13th, 2016 at Danbury Hospital. Manuel was born in Lousã, Portugal on September 23rd, 1953. He was the son of the late Manuel Fernandes.

He moved to the United States in 1969 and worked as a chef at Old Oak Restaurant and then Magnifico's Restaurant in Danbury. Later in 1986 he opened Tonelli's restaurant with his brother Tony. Tonelli's was his pride and joy for 26 years until his graceful retirement. He enjoyed gardening, caring for his birds, helping family with any work they needed in their homes, and especially loved his dog BooBoo.

He is survived by his mother Julia Fernandes of Lousã, Portugal and beloved wife, Filomena (Martins) Fernandes, and his son Manuel Fernandes Jr. (wife Melissa) of New Milford and daughter Elizabeth Fernandes of Torrington. Two step-children, Jeffrey Almeida (wife Catia) of Brookfield and Jennifer Machado (husband Firmino) of New Milford. As well as his grandchildren; Kayla & Kyle Machado, and Celeste Almeida. Manuel has four sisters; Helena Hauser, Linda Wixted, Maria Taylor, Tina Aucella and three brothers; Jack Fernandes, Antonio Fernandes, and Joey Fernandes. He also has many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends may visit at Danbury Memorial Funeral Home (117 South Street, Danbury) Friday April 15th, from 6 to 9 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday April 16th at 10 a.m. at St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Church at 138 Candlewood Lake Rd, Brookfield, burial will follow at St. Peter Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to the American Diabetes Association . To light a candle or send a condolence in his memory, please visit www.Danburymemorial.com