Joao H. Ferreira-Santos

João (John) Henrique Santos died from suicide on Sunday, January 27th 2019 in his home in La Crosse, WI. Although he was cherished and adored by his family and friends, he could not feel their love, as his heart and mind were clouded with his mental illness.

John’s life was filled with adventure. He was born in Belem, Brazil with a loving family. He served in the Brazilian army, tested the waters in the seminary, earned his degree in tourism, and moved to the United States where he proudly became an apprentice electrician. He had a passion for learning and he took great pride in his memory bank of “useless knowledge”. He could talk to any person about any topic, although his favorite topics would include, food, his love for family and friends and beer (especially La Crosse’s local Pearl Street Brewery). He was happy and lived intensely in every moment.

His funeral will take place on Saturday, February 2nd at 11:00 am with visitation at 10:00am at Roncalli Newman Center in La Crosse, WI. Services will be ongoing, in moments of grace, hope, laughter, vulnerability, strength, compassion, acceptance, gratitude, community, forgiveness, joy, healing and inspiration. Notwithstanding his death, let love remain.

In lieu of flowers, please be kind to one another. Share your struggles and fears and joys, be present and patient in each other’s journeys. And when love seems to fail – because sometimes love is not enough to ward off health conditions – then love more, pray more, talk more, learn more, live more.

Rest in peace, John, knowing you are in God's loving arms. To infinity and beyond.