Manuel Enrique Velasquez

Manuel was born in Santa Clara, El Salvador to Angel Velasquez and Francisca Orellana on August 8th, 1944. He married the love of his life, Gloria Marina Velasquez in 1976 with whom they had two daughters, Leyden Velasquez-Velasquez and Ellen Argueta Velasquez. One of his biggest accomplishments was being a father. He taught them to love all sports as much as he did, to love nature and its plants, to be thankful and to enjoy every moment life has to offer. Family was the pivotal essence of his life.

Education was a priority for him which led him to his passion of becoming a teacher in El Salvador for 15 years. When he arrived to the states, he began his career in carpentry where he had the privilege of making friends, he quickly considered family and was given the name ‘Don Meme’. Don Meme was a father-like figure to many, a grandfather for all the young, the favorite uncle, a God-father, a mentor and a coach. He was known for his love for soccer and he inflicted his love on all who knew him.

He had a life-long love affair with coffee, tomatoes, Frito chips, his homemade tortillas with refried beans, McDonald’s breakfast and IHOP at any hour of the day. He loved to use his big recliner chair where he enjoyed watching his favorite sporting events, flipping channels between old classic movies and documentaries and of course his telenovelas. He excelled in living within his means, growing tomatoes in his own backyard, outsmarting squirrels from getting to the birdfeeder, playing card games and reading any book he could get his hands on.

He took extreme pride in his three grandchildren Samantha, Adam and Sebastian Velasquez, for whom he would drop everything just to spend quality time with them. But of all the people he touched and loved, his most proud achievement in life was marrying his wife who lovingly supported him in every way possible especially during their last days together. For 44 years they have shared everything life can offer together. They were a great team supporting each other in every way.

This gentle, loving, thoughtful and wonderful man has left a permanent mark etched on our hearts and will be supremely missed. He will be forever remembered for his infectious smile, caring heart, life lessons, loving embrace and unconditional love. Although our hearts are heavy, we will celebrate his life and find comfort that he is in heaven watching over us.

Those wishing to honor his life can join at Friday’s services which will be open to the public. To offer condolences, please share a photo or memory with the family.