Gilbert Tavares, 82, of Westport formerly of Ferry St., Fall River, passed away Friday after a long illness. Husband of Hilda (Barboza) Tavares, they recently celebrated their 63rd anniversary. Born in Fall River, son of the late Charles and Maria Tavares. A Navy veteran of the Korean Conflict, he was a manager for Stop & Shop for 35 years. Gil enjoyed hosting barbecues at his lake house for his family and friends. Beloved father of Gilbert Tavares, Jr. of Westport and Claudia Billings of Natick; loving grandfather of Antone Tavares, Ryan and Theodore Billings; adoring great-grandfather of Angelina; brother of the late Maximillian Tavares. He also leaves a nephew. His Funeral Mass was concelebrated by Fr. Horace Travassos, Fr. Manuel Ferreira and Fr. Jack Oliveira on Monday, February 7th, at Our Lady of Grace Church in Westport. Committal with military honors followed at St. Patrick's Cemetery in Fall River. Donations in Gil's memory may be made to the Massachusetts Special Olympics at specialolympicsma.org.