Robert P. Resendes, 72, of Fall River, was called home Monday, Dec. 31, 2007 by his Heavenly Father after a lengthy illness. He is the husband of M. Zelia (Pereira)
Resendes. Born in Faial da Terra, Sao Miguel, Azores, son of the late Manuel M. & Artemisia (Pereira) Resendes, he proudly served in the Portuguese Army and emigrated to Fall River in 1959. A self-employed contractor in the local construction industry for many years, he was also employed as a Rehabilitation Specialist with Fall River Affordable Housing for 24 years. He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), where he served as Bishop, teacher of youth and leader in the priesthood quorum. Besides his wife of 48 years, he is survived by: a son, Robert Resendes of Prescott, AZ; a daughter, Stacy Foley (& her husband, Dr. Mark Foley) of Annville, PA; a brother, Baltasar Resendes of Tiverton, RI; a sister, Alda M. Resendes of Fall River; 7 grandchildren [Melissa, Elysha, Lauren, Aubriana & Annaliese Resendes, Kate & Maxim Foley] and several nieces and nephews.

His Funeral was held on Friday, January 4, 2008 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and was conducted by Clinton Randal Davis, 1st Counselor Branch Presidency. The invocation was given by Jim Calkins, then Stacy (Resendes) Foley, Mark Foley and Patriarch Gary Irish all spoke on the life that Robert led as a loving father, a welcoming father-in-law, and inspiring friend and mentor. Robert's granddaughter Kate Foley played "O' Come Little Children" on the violin, and the songs "Where Can I Turn for Peace?" and "Our Savior's Love" were sung by Marty Vieira and E.J. Viveiros.

After the service, Robert was carried to his place of rest in St. Patrick's Cemetery by James Calkins, Manuel Mello, Steve Perreira, Robert Resendes, Edward Silvia and John Torres.

***My Daddy***

When I was a baby, my Daddy gave me a bath every night.

On my first day of school, my Daddy told me that if anyone hit me, "hit 'em back!"

When I went to the spelling bee, my Daddy sat in the crowd and rooted for me.

When I played soccer in grade school, my Daddy practiced outside with me in our yard.

When I would ask him when he was going to join the church so we could get sealed as a family, my Daddy would say, "Someday, honey." And I knew he meant it.

When I ask my Daddy for $5, he gives me $20. When I ask for $15, he gives me $50.

My Daddy always lets me keep the change.

My Daddy always took me to McDonald's whenever I wanted it, even if I would only have "bites."

My Daddy always gave me the good meaty parts of his fish at dinner so I wouldn't have to pick out the bones.

My Daddy always tries to fatten me up so I can be "healthy."

My Daddy taught me how to fish, swim and bike and wasn't ever too busy to do any of those things with me.

My Daddy teaches meby example that it's important to always serve and help people.

When I started noticing specific boys, my Daddy pointed out to me all of the reasons why they weren't good enough for his little girl.

When we're driving, my Daddy always puts his hand in front of me to keep me safe.

When two boys in the stake "kidnapped" Kora and me, my Daddy went to the store to get the ransom -- root beer floats!

When I dated my first real boyfriend, my Daddy pretty much approved.

When my Daddy would sit up on the stand, he'd wink at me and make me smile!

When my Daddy got baptized, he looked so very handsome in his white suit.

When we got sealed as a family in the D.C. Temple, my Daddy was glowing!

When my Daddy called me at college, he always said, "I love you, Bibi."

When I brought my husband-to-be home from college, my Daddy approved.

When I left on a mission, my Daddy was the bishop who sent me off.

When I was on my mission, I got great letters from my Daddy.

When I got home and quickly got engaged, my Daddy approved again.

When Mark and I got sealed in the temple, my Daddy sat in the bride's father's seat and that means so much to me.

When we moved to Arizona and bought a mobile home, my Daddy came, checked it out, gave it his stamp of approval, and complimented us on a great money deal.

My Daddy gets us good tools and works with Mark on projects.

My Daddy encourages me to do well in school and has confidence in me.

When Kate was born, my Daddy called to ask about us all.

When Kate was blessed, My Daddy came out to be in the circle.

My Daddy is a great Vavô who calls to talk to Kate. He always says, "I love you. I love the baby."

My Daddy takes Kate on walks.

My Daddy gives us gardening tips.

My Daddy is proud of me.

My Daddy worries about me.

My Daddy cares about me.

My Daddy calls and listens to how things are going.

I'm 28 years old and my Daddy calls me "Bibi" and I love it!

All this and more, you do for me, you teach me.

Thank you! I love you, Daddy!

**written by Stacy Resendes Foley 6 years ago at the time that her father had just experienced a major heart attack.**

Zélia and the extended Resendes family would like to express their appreciation for the many acts of kindness and prayers that have been offered over the past few months. With a very special thanks to the staff and volunteers of the local Hospices and Palliative Care Agency, other care givers and her family and friends who helped make these last days comfortable and peaceful for Robert and his family.