John Moura passed away at Melrose-Wakefield Hospital on September 23, 2008; he was 82 years of age. John was born and raised Pornta Delgada, Portugal, attended school in Portugal and graduated from the Technical School of Architecture. Mr. Moura came to the Untied States in 1965, lived in West Somerville for 12 years and Melrose since 1977. He was a talented architect in Boston for the firm of Glassman Preger for 17 years. John was an avid reader & historian, he was very creative and enjoyed telling stories. As a young man Mr. Moura liked writing poetry, bike riding and kayaking. John was a dedicated member of St. Mary's Church in Melrose where he served as an Eucharistic Minister, and was a former member of the Knights of Columbus in Melrose. Devoted husband of Venilde (DaSilva) Moura. Loving father of Ana Isabel "Bela" (Moura) Maranhas & her husband Michael of Rockport and Rui M. Moura & his wife Karen of Gig Harbor, WA. Beloved brother of Alvaro Moura & Humberto Moura, both of Portugal. Cherished grandfather of Stephanie & Jessica Moura. Also survived by several nieces & nephews. Funeral from the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St. Melrose, on Monday Sept. 29th at 9AM. Funeral Mass in St. Mary's Church, Herbert St. Melrose, at 10AM. Relatives & friends invited. Visiting hours Sunday from 3-6PM. Interment in Puritan Lawn Cemetery in Peabody. Memorial contributions may be made in John's name to St. Mary's Church, 46 Myrtle St. Melrose 02176.