Manuel Araiza

Manuel was born on May 1st, 1928, in Bisbee, Arizona. As a young boy he explored the rugged hills chasing the wild donkeys and pretending to be his hero, Zorro. Both lifelong favorites in the Araiza home. While barely in his teens and looking for a better life, Manuel, along with his two brothers, made the journey to California in hopes of new opportunities.

In 1946 he enlisted in the United States Army. He served with the 6th Engineer Combat Battalion in Korea. Specializing as Gun Crewman Heavy Artillery and Compressor Operator. He received the WWII Victory Medal and Army of Occupation Medal Japan.

Manuel met the love of his life in Watsonville, where they built their home and started their life together. They married in April 1949 and together they had seven children. Manuel's greatest passion was his family. His dedication, time and selflessness were his everyday life. He enjoyed the simple things, and he lived each day with purpose. He had a knack for telling stories and was always the most excellent speech giver. He planned long road-trips near and far and he loved family get-togethers, making everyone feel special and always creating life-long memories.

Manuel was actively involved in the city's youth organizations. Coaching and instrumental with the Boys Club, YMCA and Watsonville Little League. For 22 years he took immense pleasure coaching youth baseball and the importance of dedication, camaraderie and teamwork. Go Cubs!

The Watsonville community was always important and a big part of Manny's life. He worked for the city of Watsonville for nearly 40 years. Holding many roles to include a reserve police officer and building supervisor at City Hall to name a couple. He assisted when needed as a translator; he was part of the volunteer relief during the 1989 quake and always volunteered when needed in the community. He retired in 1991.

In his later years Manny loved to take daily walks on the levee near his home. He often stopped and chatted with friends new and old and enjoyed reminiscing about his working years, his championship Cubs and his family. He enjoyed fishing along the coast in Santa Cruz and Monterey counties. He boxed in the service and always followed the sport through the years. His professional favorites were the SF 49ers, Oakland Raiders, Warriors and the SF Giants. By far he loved watching his children and grandchildren compete in athletics. Amazingly he also cheered on his great-grandsons at youth, High School and Collegiate levels.

On April 5th, 2023, Manuel joined his son Peter (Bea), grandsons, EJ and Ben and granddaughter Alice in Heaven. He will forever be missed by his wife Rose of 74 years, his sons, Manuel (Deborah), Michael (Oliva), Ernest (Terri), Larry, Nick (Elichia) and daughter, Linda. He also leaves many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and one great-great grand-child.

Upon his request a private service was held in late April. The family would like to thank the wonderful doctors, nurses and organizations big and small that helped care for Dad. A special thank you to Mehl's Colonial Chapel for doing all that you do with the utmost care and empathy.

Thank you for all your continued condolences.

"Heroes get remembered, but legends never die."

Published in The Pajaronian · August 10, 2023