The devastating loss of a 39 year old surfer named Martin 'Mantega' Cirko.
Leaving behind his wife Sophia and daughter Violetta, fundraisers have been set up to help his family.
At Praia do Canal on the 23rd February, Martin 'Mantega' Cirko, the German-Brazilian drowned after getting into difficulties in the surf. The friend he was surfing with pulled him from the water however, resuscitation was unsuccessful.
His wife Sophia said:
"He passed away doing what he loved - in a moment of happiness, surrounded by dreams for the future. This is how we will remember him: smiling fearless, and full of life."
Anyone who knew Mantega remembers his warmth, energy,and how he lit up a room. His motto was "without fear", and he truly lived by it.
