GoFundMe launched to repatriate body of Cork-based Brazilian father following sudden death

A friend of Cork-based Brazilian man José Carlos Alves, who died suddenly last week, has appealed for donations to assist his family in repatriating his body to South America.

Mr Alves, aged 33, who had been living and working in Fermoy for a number of years, died last Monday — his cause of death unknown.

His friend, Mateus Antunes, told The Echo that Mr Alves had been going about his day as normal until his wife, Amanda, found him dead in their home.

“He was at home, he woke up, made some coffee, and the only thing we know is when his wife Amanda came downstairs, he was on the sofa, dead,” said Mr Antunes.

“We don’t know if he had a heart attack or what happened. His body was sent for an autopsy, but I don’t know anything after that.

“It was a complete shock, his wife was so scared,” he added.

“She rang their brother-in-law who lives about two to three minutes away and he came down

“They then called the gardaí, who were also shocked by how young he was.”

Mr Antunes said Mr Alves was a very healthy person.

“He had no health issues, he went to the gym regularly, he was just a normal person.

“They [José and Amanda] only just had a baby, their daughter is six months old – they had only just started their lives together,” said Mr Antunes.

“We live on hard times at the moment, for everybody, and I think money is always welcome in these situations.

“His wife is alone now, she has to take care of the baby. She’ll have to go back to work while raising their child, so I think the GoFundMe will be helpful,” he added.

“I started it because they need to send his body to Goiânia in Brazil, where his funeral will take place, and that can cost upwards of €16,000. Then they will need money to cover Amanda and the baby’s flights, and any other costs that come up too.

“So if anyone has it in their heart to donate, please do.”

To make a donation to the fundraiser, visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/jose-carlos-translado-e-funeral.