Obituary
Norman R. Furtado, of Somerville, passed away on September 13, 2025, he was 71. Born in Cambridge and raised in Somerville, he was the son of the late Albertina (Travers) and Antonio Furtado. A graduate of Somerville Trade High School, he would first enlist in the Army where he would serve for three years.
After his honorable discharge, he then enlisted in the Army National Guard where he would serve another 19 years. Continuing his service to our country and community, Norman joined the Department of Veteran’s Affairs as a police officer. Assigned primarily to the West Roxbury VA Campus, he rose through the ranks and retired as a Lieutenant.
A very active member of several local Posts, he was the Past Commander of American Legion Post 19, Past Commander of the DAV Chapter 27 where he was current Junior Vice Commander and Past Member of the VFW Post 529 Board of Directors. Norman could be found proudly representing each at the City’s veteran’s dedications, Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day ceremonies. He enjoyed fishing, especially saltwater, but above all enjoyed time spent with family.
The beloved husband of Gale F. Mahan, they were married on 10-10-10. He is the cherished stepfather of Christopher Fusco and Samantha Fusco, both of Somerville and loving grandfather of Shawn Fusco and Sophia Delaney, father of Robert Furtado of Revere and Lisa Furtado of Waltham. He will be especially missed by his K9 companion Jasper. Brother of Tony Furtado and his wife Sara of Medford and John Furtado and his wife Maryann of Marlborough.
Visiting Hours will be held in the George L. Doherty Funeral Home, 855 Broadway (Powder House Sq.) Somerville on Thursday, September 18th from 3:00PM to 6:00PM. Burial with military honors will be held on Friday, September 19th at the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne at 10:45AM, those attending please arrive through the cemetery main gate and plan to arrive 10 minutes prior to 10:45AM. Relatives and friends invited to attend.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Norman’s memory can be made to the D.A.V. Chapter 27, 616 Broadway #3, Somerville, MA 02145 or to VFW Dilboy Post 529, 351 Summer St, Somerville, MA 02144.
Norman’sBlog comment creation life story reflects such deep dedication to both his country and his community. It’s clear he never stopped serving, whether through his military career, his work with the VA, or his leadership in local veterans’ organizations. The fact that he was so present at community ceremonies shows just how much he valued keeping those traditions alive for future generations.