Manuel Joseph Saucedo

Manuel "Manny" Joseph Saucedo, a respected member of the Watsonville community, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2024. Born on September 7, 1932, in Santa Cruz, California, to Manuel and Rose (Camacho) Saucedo. Manny's early life was spent on the picturesque Camacho family ranch in Aptos. This idyllic setting nurtured his adventurous spirit until heavy rains and a landslide led the family to relocate to Watsonville where he would spend the remainder of his life, building a legacy of love, dedication, and community involvement.

Manny's heart found its match in Josephine Stefanini when they met at Watsonville High School. Their love story began at the Sadie Hawkins Dance, setting the stage for a remarkable 71-year marriage. They wed in August 1953, shortly after Josephine graduated from high school, and together they raised a beautiful family that includes their four children: Tony (Alma), Doug (Jackie), Cheryl (Carol), and Mark (Amie). Their enduring partnership was a testament to the love and commitment they shared, a love that extended to their five grandchildren: Adam Saucedo, Kristie Saucedo, Ryan Saucedo (Michelle), Zack Saucedo (Caitlynn), and Garrett Saucedo (Bianca).

Manny was not only a devoted family man but also an accomplished athlete. During his youth, he excelled in sports, participating in football, basketball, and track at Watsonville High School. His athletic talent continued when he went into the Navy, where he played football while stationed at Treasure Island. He often reflected on his Navy days, especially his time aboard the USS Corregidor, CVE-58, as some of the best moments of his life.

Following his service, Manny returned to Watsonville and established a successful career as a truck driver and delivery man. His passion for sports remained a central theme in his life. Alongside Josephine, he became a familiar face at countless sporting events, cheering for his children and grandchildren with unwavering enthusiasm. His commitment to youth athletics was evident as he coached various teams, including Little League, Pony League, and Colt League baseball. He was also a founding member of the first Pop Warner football team in Watsonville, the Pajaro Valley Packers, contributing significantly to the community's sports culture.

Manny's love for golf was another defining aspect of his life. He cherished weekends spent on the golf course with some of his sons and grandsons, creating lasting memories and passing down his passion for the game. He also was a golf coach at Palma High School in Salinas. He was an active member of the Watsonville High School Athletic Boosters Club and the Cabrillo College Athletic Boosters Club, where he tirelessly advocated for local athletics and inspired the next generation of athletes.

Manny Saucedo's life was a beautiful blend of family, friendship, and service to others. He is survived by his beloved wife, children, grandchildren, and a sister, Ramona Alderete, along with numerous nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, a testament to a life well-lived. As we remember Manny, let us celebrate the warmth he brought to our lives and the enduring impact he made in Watsonville and beyond.

The family would like to thank his nurse, Elizabeth Ríos, for the outstanding care she provided. We would also like to express our appreciation to his nurse Renata García, his physical therapist Tash Castro, and the staff of Choice Home Health Care for the excellent care he received.

The viewing will be at Mehl's Colonial Chapel on Wednesday, November 20, 2024 from 3:00-9:00 p.m. Funeral services will also be held at Mehl's on Thursday, November 21, 2024 at 10:00 a.m., with burial to follow at 12:00 at Valley Public Cemetery.

Published in The Pajaronian · November 11, 2024