Goncalves began his industry career in pre-press, and went on to join Finchmark in 1986, where he became the first salesperson to break a £1m sales target.
He subsequently worked at 26 Group, and then in 1990 set up FI Printing with two business partners.
Goncalves stepped back in 2000 following a health scare, but bounced back and brought together a team of like-minded people to set up DXG Media, which began trading on 1 December 2001 specialising in high-quality commercial printing.
The business was initially based in Stockport and moved to a purpose-built site in Dukinfield in 2007.
In 2013 he was awarded Business Person of the Year in the Pride of Tameside Awards.
Goncalves’ family originated from Madeira, and he was on holiday on the island celebrating his 20th wedding anniversary when he suffered his third, and sadly fatal, heart attack on 20 April.
DXG Media sales director Adrian Coupe said: “Duarte was a fun-loving man and could often be found laughing and joking with the staff at DXG. He lived life for the experience and was always ready to try something new, usually with his wife Angela who he considered to be his best friend.
“He was funny and kind and always had time for people. Even though he was often very busy he always had an open door policy at the office. He will be missed every day.”
Outside of work, Goncalves was a big foodie and passionate cook, as well as being very active.
“Duarte loved to entertain his family and friends at home. His love of music came from his younger years as a DJ, performing at many Manchester venues and occasionally even on the radio!
“He kept his trademark gold hotpants all these years and wore them proudly when he played his final gig at the Headland Festival in 2021. He liked to be active, playing football regularly and he could often be seen cycling around Cheshire with Angela,” Coupe added.
Goncalves was also a keen hiker, and recently made it to the summit of Helvellyn mountain in the Lake District.
Goncalves surrounded by his family
Tributes poured in on LinkedIn after DXG Media announced the sad news, with many sharing the same sentiments about Goncalves’ passion for print and for people.
Andy Galloway, chairman at Galloways Printers, said: “What a tragedy. I was fortunate to consider Duarte as a friend first and a competitor second. Thoughts go out to the family and all at DXG.”
Steve Bate, owner of Print Approved, said: “I think we all had Duarte down as a friend firstly before any business. We have been with the DXG family since day one and have enjoyed many a good old time spent with them all and seeing Duarte's passion in growing the business was and still is a pleasure to be a part of.
“Our thoughts go out to Ange and the family.”
Bate said he was sure the DXG team “will continue to provide their amazing level of service”.
Goncalves is survived by his wife Angela, daughters Mia and Caitlyn, and son Josh.
His funeral has already taken place in Madeira, but there are plans to hold a memorial service with details to be confirmed in due course.
Charitable donations in his memory can be made to the British Heart Foundation.
The DXG Media team said they were committed to continuing the business in his name, and asked for the support of suppliers and customers as the company comes to terms with his loss.
