Obituary

With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Aires Manuel Costa on April 8, 2026, at his cherished home, surrounded by love and the treasured memories he created with his sons. Born on December 9, 1961, in the beautiful town of Vila Franca do Campo, São Miguel, Azores, Portugal, Aires and his family immigrated to the United States in 1969, settling in Somerville, Massachusetts.

A man of many talents and a thirst for knowledge, Aires graduated from Somerville High School and later earned a builder-contractor license from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts before moving to Mesa, Arizona in 1994, working in the construction and remodeling business for the next 20 years, leaving behind a legacy of beautifully crafted homes, improvement projects, and satisfied customers. He spent the past decade working passionately at Honeywell International in Phoenix where he assembled and repaired jet engines, a career he truly enjoyed, making many friends and lasting memories along the way.

Aires was not only a master of his trade but also an exceptional artist. His skilled hands transformed homes through renovation and special construction projects, creating spaces filled with beauty and harmony. In recent years, he found joy in crafting violins, each a testament to his patience and precision. His passion for restoring classic cars fostered shared joy with his sons, creating unforgettable memories together.

Aires was the beloved son of Maria Angelina (Cabral) Costa and Octavio S. Costa, of Burlington, MA. Though his mother predeceased him a year earlier, Aires carried her spirit and kindness. He is survived by his devoted sons, Michael Anthony Costa and his fiancée, Sarah Monroe; Christopher Lee Costa and his dear wife, Chelsea. Aires was also a cherished brother to Mario Costa of Scottsdale, AZ; Octavio A. Costa and his wife, Barbara, of Algarve, Portugal; Genadio Costa and his wife, Ruby, of Plaistow, NH; and Grace Costa of Burlington, MA; and his former spouse, Judith A. (DeMarco), Costa. He held a special place in the hearts of his godparents, as well as many nephews, nieces, friends and cousins.

Aires leaves behind a legacy of creativity, love, and dedication. His gentle spirit, uplifting personality and generosity touched everyone he encountered, enriching the lives of all he inspired. Aires embodied warmth and creativity, living a life that exemplified the transformative power of love, family, and craftsmanship.

Aires’s life will be honored in a private family ceremony, in keeping with his wishes for an intimate farewell. A celebration of life will be held at a later date