Richard F. Ponte Obituary

Richard F. Ponte, 71, of Fairhaven passed away Thursday, April 17, 2014 at home after a long illness. He was the husband of 46 years, of Vivian E. (Lefrancois) Ponte. Born and raised in New Bedford, the son of the late Frank M. and Yvonne (Caron) Ponte, he lived in Vineyard Haven prior to settling in Fairhaven in 1979. Richard was a member of the Teamsters Union Local #653 and drove truck for many years for United Liquors until his retirement at age 62.

He and his wife have been foster parents for the past 15 years. He was also a member of the Redman's Club on Martha's Vineyard and enjoyed working in his yard, he also enjoyed camping and that he and his wife have been foster parents for the past 15 years. He is survived by his wife; a son, Richard Ponte, Jr. of New Bedford; a daughter, Brieanna Medeiros of Fairhaven; two step sons, Joseph Medeiros of Martha's Vineyard and Kevin Medeiros of Hyannis; two grandchildren, Jessica Bachand and Alana Ponte; a great granddaughter, Lilly; five step grandchildren, Joseph, Jamie, Kristen, Devin and Arianna Medeiros and several niece and nephews.

Mr. Ponte was the father of the late Frank Ponte and brother of the late Gilbert, Norman and Vivian Ponte. Funeral Information A graveside service will be held Friday, April 25, 2014, at 12:00 pm, in the River-Side Cemetery, Fairhaven. Calling hours are omitted. Arrangements are by the Fairhaven Funeral Home, 117 Main Street, Fairhaven.