Americo “Coco“ Esteves

(1921-2012) - Americo “Coco“ Esteves, 90, of Ludlow, passed away peacefully at home on February 15, 2012 surrounded by his loving family. Born in Ludlow, son of the late Manuel and Theresa (DeJesus) Esteves, he was a lifelong resident and worked for may years at the Ludlow Mills before retiring.  Americo was a United States Army Veteran proudly serving his country during WWII with 804th Tank Destroyer Battalion.He was the recipient of the European, African, and Middle Eastern Service Medals with 4 Bronze Stars, as well as the Good Conduct Medal and 4 Overseas Service Bars.   He was also a member of the former St. Mary of the Assumption Church, a former member and soccer player for the Gremio Lusitano Club, an avid Bruins and Yankees fan, and enjoyed golfing. During his retirement, he took pleasure sitting out on his porch socializing with his neighbors but his greatest joy in life was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. 

Americo was the beloved husband of the late Carmen (Pereira) Esteves, who predeceased him in 2003; a loving father to James Esteves and wife Vicky, Debbie Esteves and companion John Campbell, and Susan Esteves, all of Ludlow; a devoted grandfather to Kayla and James Esteves Jr.; a cherished brother to Anna Esteves, of Ludlow, Ida Romano and late husband Joseph, of Suffield, CT.He was predeceased by siblings  Nazare Tavares and husband  Manuel, Mary Almeida and husband Charlie, Antonio "Choc" Esteves, and Fermino "Ross" Esteves.  A dear brother in law to Mary Esteves, Scorpy and Hazel Dias, Dolly Pereira and late husband Porfirio "Fedo", Phoebe Pereira and late husband Francisco,  the late Gloria and Anthony Fonseca, and Antonio "Pago" Pereira. He also leaves several loving extended members and dear friends.  Americo's family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to Baystate Visiting Nurses and Hospice for their exceptional care and compassion. 

Funeral services are on Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at 8:00am from Ludlow Funeral Home with Liturgy of Christian Burial at 9:00am in St. Elizabeth Parish followed by burial with Military Honors in St. Aloysius Cemetery.  Visiting hours are on Monday from 4-7pm.  For additional information or online condolences, please visit www.ludlowfuneralhome.com