It is with profound sadness that I report of IM Joaquim Durao‘s passing yesterday in Lisbon at the age of 84. I am still a bit shaken with this news, especially as I was not aware of any serious health problems. My most sincere condolences to his wife Rosa, and all of his children and grandchildren.
(photo by Kevin Spraggett)
I last saw Joaquim in December at the traditional semi-active tournament at the Mata de Benfica in Lisboa, where he and one of his seven grandchildren (Jose Ricardo–on the far right) were regular participants. In the photo above we can see Joaquim flanked by his wife, Rosa, and two of his children, Miguel and Jose.