On March 26, 2023, Michael Zeferino Pinheiro, beloved husband, father, son, and friend, passed away at the age of 46 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Michael was born in Fort Dix, New Jersey to Mario Pinheiro and Barbara Pinheiro. During his life he called many places home, including, Massachusetts, Texas, North Carolina, and Oklahoma. He married his wife, Rachael Pinheiro, on January 17, 2012. Michael enjoyed a variety of careers throughout his life, including treasure diving, preschool teaching, and being a CNA and EMT. However, the careers he was most proud of was serving in the US Army and being a Registered Nurse.
During his time in the Army, Michael served with distinction as a Radar Mechanic with the prestigious 82nd Airborne division. Michael served two combat tours in Iraq, and participated in the 82nd Airborne Relief efforts, following Hurricane Katrina. He was a decorated Jumpmaster and respected non-commissioned Officer, having earned his Senior Parachutist Badge, The Army Combat Action Badge, The Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, and more. He retired as a Staff Sargent after serving as an AIT instructor at Ft Sill, Oklahoma.
Michael was known for truly lighting up every room he walked into. His charismatic personality and dashing smile was sure to be the center of attention. He always put others before himself, and found true joy in serving in any capacity, whether it be in the military, as a nurse, in his community or church, or as a father and husband. He was a man of God who led by example walking daily with Christ.
Michael is preceded in death by his mother, Barbara Pinheiro, his brother Brian Pinheiro, and his stepbrother Dennis Taft.
Michael is survived by his wife, Rachael Pinheiro, his son Nicholas (Kalie) Pinheiro and his three children Brayden, Sophia, and Layla, his daughter Julia Pinheiro, his daughter Amelia Pinheiro, his daughter Melody Frazier, his daughter Maria Pinheiro, his son Ezekiel Pinheiro, his father Mario (MaryAnne) Pinheiro , sisters Stella (Bill) Sicina, Tracey Robicheau, Kristy (Al) Voss, Nicole (Gus) Almeida, sister-in-law Kelly Pinheiro, step sister Deanna Taft, step brother Derek Taft, and their mother Lisa Iannone, along with numerous aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, and cousins.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, April 2nd, from 4 - 6 PM at Fitzgerald Southwood Colonial Chapel, with a funeral service on Monday, April 3rd at 12:30 PM at Evergreen Baptist Church, Bixby, Oklahoma. A committal service with full military honors will follow the service at Calvary Cemetery.