The greater Bridgeport community paused Saturday to remember John Esteves, a powerhouse advocate for people with disabilities and the founder of the nonprofit Disability Resource Network.

Esteves, who passed away on March 21 in Florida, is remembered as a lifeline for people with disabilities.

"John Esteves was a tireless champion for disability rights, and you didn't want to get between him and somebody he was trying to help. We loved John and are diminished by his loss," said former Bridgeport Mayor Bill Finch.

Esteves' life took a pivotal turn at age 27 when he became disabled.

Rather than withdrawing, he spent the next three decades fighting for the civil rights that eventually became part of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Though Esteves used a wheelchair, those who knew him say he never failed to "rise" to the challenge of breaking down societal and physical barriers.

"He had a passion for his purpose; he was somebody that mayors relied upon to help people the city can’t always help," said Finch.

Esteves was laid to rest at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Trumbull.