Elica Alves Medina

Elica Alves De Pina Medina, affectionately known as Elka, was born on April 25, 1931 in Sao Filipe Fogo, Cabo Verde to parents Antonio Alves De Pina and Isabel Medina Alves De Pina. Elica was the eldest of 10 children and was instrumental in helping raise her siblings. In her younger years, she developed a love for sewing and became a well- known seamstress in her town. Elica a married the love of her life Manuel “Papa” Medina and had 9 children. In 1977 the family immigrated to Dorchester Massachusetts where they raised their children on Monadnock Street. Elica worked at Nova Boimedical until 1985 when she suffered an injury that lead to an early retirement. Elica enjoyed watching Novelas and making pastel di midjo. Her pastels became quite famous in the Cape Verdean community and as the demand increased, she started to make them for special order. She was also known for having a quick wit. Everyone would say and laugh at the fact that Elica always had a quick response waiting. Elica was also known for her big caring heart and frequently took in family members and friends who had recently arrived to the United States. On summer evenings she enjoyed telling stories out on her front porch and steps. Elica is predeceased by her loving parents, her lifelong love Papa, three siblings, and 2 children. Elica leaves behind 7 children, 24 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and 4 great great grandchildren, 6 sibling and many nieces and nephews. Elica will always be remembered as being a phenomenal woman and will truly be missed by all.