Antero Sousa Gonsalves, 98, passed away on Saturday, August 17, 2024, at St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford, Massachusetts. Born in New Bedford on February 26, 1926, Antero was a proud Captain for the New Bedford Police Department and also served as Deputy Chief. He retired in 1988 after an accomplished and respected 37-year career.

Antero's life was dedicated to the service of his country, community, and family. Upon graduating from New Bedford High School, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving in a field artillery observation battalion in the Philippines in World War II. After returning home and joining the police force, he met the love of his life, Therese, marrying her in 1952. Their love story is one for the ages, and their deep love only grew for each other throughout their 72-year marriage. Antero would often be remembered by saying "I don't know how I got so lucky, meeting that gal." The two of them worked tirelessly and accomplished everything they set out to do. He loved his home on Central Avenue, and in it they created a beautiful life that exemplified true devotion and partnership. Frequently, Antero would claim that the best choice he ever made was marrying Therese.

Antero became a father to his beloved daughter, Lynne, in 1955. She was his world, and eventually spent many days alongside him while he was working at Station 3 and all over the city. Antero and Lynne's inseparable connection lasted throughout Lynne's life; they would see each other daily. He became the most present, loving, and supportive grandfather to Allison, Jillian, and Jeffrey. They were everything to him. He loved and deeply respected his son-in-law, Donald, and treated him as if he were his own son. Antero, Therese, Lynne, Donald, Allison, Jillian, and Jeffrey became a tight unit known to each other as "The Seven".

Antero enjoyed staying active, skiing, playing tennis, reading, traveling, attending hundreds of his grandchildren's performances, games, and milestone moments. He would often be seen walking miles every day through the North End. He served on the committee for the Museum of Madeiran Heritage and volunteered during New Bedford's Feast of the Blessed Sacrament for many years. He was incredibly proud of his Madeiran heritage and frequently traveled to Portugal to visit family. Antero believed in education, integrity, hard work, and treating people with dignity and respect. He instilled these values in his grandchildren. His generosity and loyalty knew no limits. He became an adopted grandfather to many of his grandchildren's friends. He was affectionately known as "Odie" to all of the kids, a name accidentally created for him when he became a grandfather. Known to many as "Terry", he was a steadfast friend to countless fortunate people whose lives were touched by his selflessness.

When Antero walked through the door, the room would change. His infectious smile and laughter would light up the world around him. His sense of humor was uniquely funny and quick-witted. His family adored his many police stories as he shared them over and over again during joyful gatherings. He was very proud of his family's closeness and would constantly express his love for them with sincerity and gratitude. Antero's presence and uplifting personality will be missed beyond measure.

Antero was predeceased by his daughter, Lynne Lacasse; his parents, João and Eliza Gonsalves; his aunts, Titia Alice and Titia Frances; his cousins, Johnny Teixeira, Gilda Setteducati, and Lena Teixeira; and his brother-in-law, William Bartlett (Jr.). He is survived by his loving wife, Therese Gonsalves; his devoted son-in law, Donald Lacasse; his adoring grandchildren, Allison, Jillian, and Jeffrey Lacasse; his sister-in-law, Frances Bartlett; his nieces and nephews, William Bartlett (III), Cheryl Bartlett, Dawn Mann, Gayle Schutte, and Christopher Bartlett; and his cousin, Elman "Phil" Teixeira.

His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, August 23, 2024, at 11AM at Holy Name of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, 121 Mt. Pleasant St, New Bedford. Everyone is invited to meet at the church. Burial in Pine Grove Cemetery will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Veterans Transition House . For the online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.