Manuel de Jesus Guzman

Manuel was born in Babahoyo, Ecuador on January 15,1939. He attended the Escuela Superior Politecnica in Guayaquil, graduating with a M.S., magna cum laude, as Ecuador’s first naval architect and marine engineer. In 1967, following graduation, he immigrated to New Orleans, Louisiana. He spent his professional career, which lasted more than 40 years, in New Orleans, retiring from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) in 2009. His work included significant projects around the world. He was a member of the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers and the Propellor Club of New Orleans. He received numerous awards and commendations throughout his career.

Manuel was a lifelong learner and enjoyed reading, traveling, designing and building his own home projects, and studying subjects outside of his field, such as medicine and finance. At an early age, he excelled in school and held high ambitions for his career. He was considered a gentleman of the highest order by his colleagues, a dedicated husband and father, and a loyal friend and neighbor.

Manuel married Miriam (Lupe) Montesdeoca Perasso on May 25, 1966, in Guayaquil, after becoming engaged in 1960. They were married nearly 58 years and together for more than 64 years. Manuel is preceded in death by his parents, Manuel Medardo Guzman and Ninfa Olivia Otero.

In addition to his spouse, Manuel is survived by his sons, Javier Guzman of Cambridge, Mass. and Bernard Guzman of Washington, D.C.; their spouses, Kiran Ahuja and Shannon Guzman; four grandchildren, Noah, Elena, Matthew and Milagros; his aunt, Violeta Otero of Ecuador; and many siblings, cousins, and in-laws.

A family viewing was held on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at Blount & Curry Funeral Home - Terrace Oaks Chapel in Temple Terrace, Florida. Last rites were performed by Deacon Edmond Anctil of Mary Help of Christians Parish. Cremation followed the private service. In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged in his memory to the City of Cambridge Scholarship Program, Cambridge, Mass. or Food & Friends, Washington, D.C.