Her friendly smile brought joy.

Berenice Gonzaga Alves, 93, of Duluth, MN had passed away at her home on September 10, 2026. She was born and grew up in Catende, Pemumbuco, Brazil where she went to school and later on married Paulo Alves. During the years that she had lived in Brazil, she devoted her life to serve the Lord as a children's Evangelist, sang in the choir, also did Bible church productions and helped with the women's ministry at her church. Berenice was a Homemaker and a Dress Maker. She was also an excellent cook. Here in Duluth, she loved Lake Superior, The Rose Garden and she loved eating at Apple'bees. Berenice was kind and friendly to everyone that approached her.

Berenice was preceded in death by her husband, Paulo Alves; and grandchild, Carine Passos Alves.

Berenice is survived by 6 children, Samuel Vitor Alves, Midian Alves Rodrigues, Geremias Gonzaga Alves, Miriam Alves Ferreira, Marcia Sorenson and Berenice Filha; 18 grandchildren, Marcos Henrique Rodrigues, Michael Rodrigues, Michel Rodrigues, Gabriel Alves, Rafael Alves, Sara Alves Ferreira, Elisa Alves Ferreira, Ana Alves Ferreira, Melina Cristina Rider, Melanie Sorenson, Isaiah Sorenson, Grace Shelton, Wesley Shelton, Isabella Shelton, Camila Passos, Caroline Passos, and Samuel Vitor Alves Junior; and 5 great-grandchildren, Ricardo Rodrigues, Alana Rodrigues, Petrus Vinicius, Angelina Alves, Alina Rider.

The family would like extend their thanks to Essentia Health Oncology floor, Hospice Home care and Solvey for the outstanding Support and Services to Berenice. They also want to express their appreciation to Dr. John Wood, for the many years of loving care.

Private Funeral Service will be held at Sunrise Funeral Home, 4798 Miller Trunk Hwy, Hermantown, MN, and interment to follow at Sunrise Memorial Park Cemetery.