Norberto Carreiro Galego

The family of Norberto Carreiro Galego sadly announces his passing on February 6, 2026, at his home in Sebastopol. Norberto truly lived the American Dream. Born in Sao Miguel, Azores, on September 18, 1933, he immigrated to the United States at the young age of seventeen with his brother, Arthur. Together, they traveled across the country from Massachusetts to California with only a few dollars in their pockets. Once settled in California, Norberto went to work in the dairy industry.

Norberto met the love of his life, Maria Otilia Cabral, in 1956. They married in 1958 and had two children, Margaret and Joe.

After working seven days a week for ten years milking cows and running a dairy in Tomales, Norberto went into business for himself. He started Sonoma Marin Pool Service and continued his dream job until he retired in 1995. Once retired, he was able to enjoy his true calling: spending time with his grandsons and gardening. Norberto supplied neighbors and friends with his bounty of tomatoes, zucchini, potatoes, corn, green beans, fava beans, and juicy oranges. Norberto harvested his last crop of potatoes this past fall with the help of Maria Otilia.

Norberto is survived by his wife, Maria Otilia; daughter, Margaret (Al) Cerrone; son, Joe Galego; grandsons, Albert Cerrone and Daniel (Simonette) Cerrone; and great-grandson, Carmine Cerrone. He is preceded in death by his parents, João and Margarida Galego, and his brothers, John and Arthur Galego.

A rosary service will be held on Wednesday, February 25th, at 6:00 p.m. at Parent-Sorensen Mortuary in Petaluma. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 26th, at St. Vincent de Paul Church in Petaluma, with a reception following at the Petaluma Holy Ghost Hall. Please consider donating to the St. Vincent de Paul Church Maintenance Fund.