Juan M. Bretal

Juan M. Bretal, 75, of New Bedford passed away Saturday, March 7, 2026 at Charlton Memorial Hospital, after a brief illness, with his nieces Cristina and Taylee by his side.

Born in Oleta, San Sebastian, Guipuzkoa, Spain, the son of the late Gerardo and Ramona Marino Bretal, he had lived in New Bedford since immigrating to the United States in 1979.

He was formerly employed as a commercial fisherman, licensed ship captain, and certified telegraphist.

Juan enjoyed arts and crafts and was a talented artist who especially enjoyed creating nautical themed crafts including beautifully crafted model ships.

He is survived by his sister, Ramona Contreras; his brother-in-law, Juan Martinez; three nieces, Ana Contreras, Maria Matos, and Mildred Bretal; his nephew, Yancy Bretal; 13 great-nieces and nephews; and 16 great-great nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by three siblings, Teresa Bretal, Gerardo Bretal, and Jose Bretal; his niece, Elena Bretal; and two nephews, Angel G. Contreras and Gerald Bretal.

His Memorial Mass will be held Monday, March 23, 2026 at 10am at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish at St. James Church, 233 County St., New Bedford. Burial will be held at a later date in Cementerio Erandio Altzaga in Spain. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.