Manuel passed away surrounded by family on Sunday, March 26, 2023 at the age of 86. He was born on January 12, 1937 in Fresno, Ca. and was the youngest of four children born to Flora and Patrick Manzula. He grew up on the west side of Fresno and graduated from Edison High School in 1956, where he played as a defensive lineman on their championship-winning football team. His jersey number was 86, making his last birthday extra special to him. After high school he fulfilled a childhood dream to work with planes by serving as a jet engine mechanic for the United States Air National Guard from 1956-1962. He then worked as an auto painter for a few years before beginning his 45-year career as a concrete mason. He took great pride in playing a role in building and shaping his local community.
Manuel’s love for aviation never faded and in retirement, he had ample time to foster that passion. He enjoyed attending air shows and had a specific affection for Warbirds, which inspired many beautiful paintings and models. His artistic and building talents included other creative endeavors, such as creating magnificent scenery paintings, amazing stained glass, and intricate wood works. Additionally, he enjoyed many outdoor activities that included bike riding, golfing, and gardening. In his down time, he took pleasure in watching old western movies and listening to music on the radio.
Throughout his life, Manuel enjoyed dancing. He cherished his times at the Rainbow Ballroom, where he met the love of his life, Juanita (Nita) Manzula. He described those memories as the “Glory Days.” They eventually married and shared many dances together.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Nita, who he was happily married to for 49 years before her passing in 2008. He is survived by his children, Jeanette Gilevich and her husband Mike, and Mark Manzula and his wife Ana; and his pride and joy, his granddaughters: Dr. Amanda Lockerbie and her husband Scott, and Dr. Alisa Manzula and her fiancé Chris.
Manuel will be remembered for his fun-loving sense of humor and overwhelming love and support for his family.
Visitation will be held at Whitehurst, Sullivan, Burns & Blair Funeral Home in the Chapel, 836 E. Nees Ave, Fresno, Ca., on Monday, April 17, 2023 from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Recitation of the Holy Rosary will follow at 6:00 PM. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 5770 N. Maroa, Fresno, Ca. on Tuesday, April 18, 2023 at 10:00 AM. Interment to follow at Fresno Memorial Gardens, 175 S. Cornelia Ave, Fresno, Ca. Reception to follow at Whitehurst, Sullivan, Burns & Blair Funeral Home in the Hospitality Room.
