It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Mario Melo Soares Sr, loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, friend, and loved member of the community.  Mario died peacefully on November 29, 2023, at the age of 79 in his Peabody home surrounded by his family.

Mario was born in Sao Miguel, Azores on September 3, 1944, to Rosa Jaquina.  He proudly served 3 years in the Portuguese Military and moved to the U.S. in 1970, the same year he married his beloved wife Nalia whom he shared 53 amazing years of marriage.

Mario leaves behind his devoted wife, Nalia, his five children, Elsa James (Bill) of Concord, NH, Tina Walsh (Tom) of Merrimac, Rosalee Soares of Peabody, Louis Soares of Honolulu, HI and Mario Soares of Beverly; his grandchildren Sadie Grace, Kurtis Alves, Andrew Bertwell, Julie Ann Bertwell, Lily Walsh, Emma Walsh, Tommy Walsh, Lucas Soares, Phoenix Soares and his great-grandchildren, Gavin Grace, Addisyn Grace, Karson Alves and Konnor Alves.

Throughout his professional career, Mario dedicated years of service to Sylvania as a machinist and was a proud member of the Portuguese band committee in Peabody and the Holy Ghost Society in Peabody where he showed his dedication to his faith.

Mario was a kind and loving soul that enjoyed making children smile and always lit up when he heard Portuguese music. He was fiercely loyal to both his family and friends and loved being surrounded by them.

Visting hours to honor and pay respects to Mario will be held on Sunday, December 3, 2023, from 4:00-7:00 at Murphy Funeral Home, located at 85 Federal St., Salem, MA.  A funeral mass will be held on Monday, December 4, 2023, at St. Thomas Church, 10:00 A.M., 1 Margin St. Peabody, MA. In lieu of flowers, to honor Mario, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.