Mendel Ciubal Manzano

MENDEL was more than just a loving father, husband, son, uncle, and grandfather. He was the touchstone, the terra firma, and the North Star to all his family and close friends.

Born in 1950 in post-war Philippines, the eldest of three boys to Victor and Victoria Manzano, younger brothers Max and Mar. Studied initially at the University of Santo Tomas, the oldest university in Asia. Transferred to Manila Central University where he met and started courting his wife, Lourdes Yolola. Moved with his family from Manila to San Francisco in 1970. McDonald's bus boy turned Vietnam-era draftee, US Air Force.

Deployed to the far corners of the world including Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, Korea, and the Philippines. Served with distinction and returned with honor. Bought an amazing record player sound system in Northen Japan that eventually produced music for his two little boys to dance to, and it still works to this day.

Surgical medical technician turned registered nurse.

Left the service a Staff Sergeant and continued his studies to achieve his Bachelor’s Degree at Humber College, Toronto. Courted his wife in college and continued through long-distance love letters; finally married after nursing school. Saved some money together and eventually drove down the Trans-Canada Highway to start a life in California.

Two boys, Michael and Matthew.

Then daughters-in-law, Kristina and Ayano.

Then three beautiful and doting grandchildren; Bella, Mason, and Hazel.

Loved them all, more than anything in the world.

A life of endless sacrifice, utterly selfless service, and profound devotion to his loved ones. Worked three jobs at once; days, nights, then weekends on-call. Then soccer and basketball games, swim meets, and unforgettable family vacations. Up before his boys woke, back only after bedtime. Ate dinner (leftovers) standing over the sink, and kissed his boys "good night" while they were already asleep (or pretending to be). His only respite – quiet time in the garage or backyard, working his projects. Visited his beloved Lourdes every single day in her nursing home, helping to feed and care for her, all while on chemotherapy for his own cancer battle.

Loved gardening, carpentry, and fixing things.

The front yard, back deck, basketball court, and pool area at their California home. Planter boxes and storage shelves for one son's family in Virginia. A playground, pergola, decking, and landscaping for family in Tennessee.

Loved sports. The 49ers. UCLA. Took the boys to a Giants game at Candlestick Park when they were young, and watched the World Cup 2026 games with his boys from his hospital bed in his final days.

MENDEL is survived by his wife, two sons, three grandchildren, two daughters-in-law, mother, and two younger brothers. He leaves behind a legacy of faithful service, loving devotion, and gratitude for life.