Grandfather, restaurateur, Catholic priest

José Caetano Medeiros — “Joe” — died February 15 at the age of 88, leaving behind a life defined by faith, resilience, service, and unwavering devotion to family.

Born in Santa Barbara, São Miguel, Azores, Portugal, to Joao Caetano Medeiros and Angelina de Lourdes Pereira, Joe grew up rooted in the traditions, discipline, and spiritual foundation that would guide him throughout his life. From an early age, his path was marked by faith and purpose. He went on to serve 15 years as a Catholic priest, dedicating himself fully to his calling and to the communities he shepherded.

“Though he later made the courageous decision to leave the priesthood in order to marry and build a family, his faith never diminished,” his family shared. “It remained central to who he was. He lived it not loudly, but consistently — through compassion, humility, and service. He was not a man of many words, but of thoughtful action. He believed in leading by example. He did not judge others. He valued simplicity. He chose kindness.”

In 1980, he immigrated to the United States, settling in Southern California. Like many immigrants, he carried little but his work ethic, faith, and determination. In 1984, he began helping lead Senhor Santo Cristo Festival, dedicating 30 years to preserving one of the most meaningful traditions for Portuguese immigrants in the region. Through Senhor Santo Cristo, generations were able to celebrate the patron of their islands and maintain a vital connection to their heritage. His leadership there was not about recognition; it was about continuity, faith, and community.

He later co-founded Euro Cafe in 2004 and Chourico Medeiros in 2006. Both remain lasting testaments to his entrepreneurial spirit and pride in his Portuguese roots. Through these ventures, he created not just businesses, but gathering places — spaces where culture, tradition, and family converged.

Above all else, he valued his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Margaret Cabral Medeiros, whose partnership and devotion were central to his life. “As a husband, he was present and steadfast, offering quiet strength and loving compassion,” his family said. “As a father to Nuno Medeiros, he supported not through speeches, but through steady thoughtfulness and example. His grandchildren, Diego and Claudia, brought him immense pride and joy.” He is also survived by his siblings Conceicao and Estrela and daughter in-law Caroline.

“Joe faced hardship with remarkable resilience,” his family said. “He battled cancer twice and overcame a stroke at the age of 86. Each challenge was met without complaint and without self-pity. Strength, to him, was quiet perseverance.”

Outside of his public and professional life, he found joy in simple pleasures. He was an avid stamp collector, a dedicated pigeon fancier, and a gardener who found peace tending to the earth. These hobbies reflected the same patience and attentiveness that defined the rest of his life.

“Those who knew Joe understood that his legacy was not built on titles or achievements alone, but on the way he treated people,” his family said. “He believed deeply in service. He lived modestly. He gave generously of his time. He maintained his faith not as performance, but as practice.

“He will be laid to rest in Porto Formoso, São Miguel, Azores, returning to the land where his life began. In doing so, his story comes full circle — an immigrant, a priest, a husband, a father, a community builder, and a man whose life of service leaves a lasting imprint on all who knew him.

“His legacy lives on in his family, his community, and the countless lives shaped quietly by his example.”

A funeral Mass will take place at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 11 at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, 12686 Central Ave., Chino, CA 91710.