Manuel C. Mendoza, affectionately known as Manny, was a loving family man who brought tenderness, warmth, and generosity to all he encountered. He was born in La Union, New Mexico in 1936, where his rural roots instilled a love of animals, nature, and working with his hands. As a child, he moved with his family to Eloy, Arizona, where he met the love of his life, Maria Mendoza. At just 17 and 18 years old they married, beginning a devoted union that endured for seven decades.

Manny and his wife had four children—Manuel Jr., Irene, Steven, and Nancy. The couple raised them in Tucson, where Manny became a steadfast member of the Tucson Carpenters and Arizona Laborers Unions. He worked tirelessly to support his family, taking great pride in his contributions to the skyline, including Tucson's tallest building, UniSource Energy Tower, and substantial additions to the UofA's Arizona Stadium. For his children, drives through the city were a treat as he proudly pointed out the landmarks he helped build.

Manny and Maria's remarkable life together was tested by waves of change and upheaval. They were challenged many times by illness, uncertainty, and loss—particularly by the death of their second child. But each found in the other a way to navigate the world. They were both deeply religious and committed to traditional Catholicism, and their stability and hope were a constant for those around them. They were always there for each other and he loved his wife deeply.

His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren gave him joy, and he was always fun and patient with them. Whenever possible he attended their games and events, bursting with enthusiasm. He rooted for them and hoped each would find happiness. He would have done anything for them within his power. He tried to teach them that hard work and curiosity were the key to success.

His gorgeous smile brightened rooms and lifted spirits. His handsomeness, sharp style, and love of clothes and cars were an inspiration. He had a sensitive eye—seeing and appreciating beauty and elegance where it existed. May we all follow his example and demonstrate kindness and respect to everyone we encounter—shaking hands and offering hugs, taking the time to enjoy and share the moment with others. Manny was a lovely man and he will be sorely missed.

Please join the family for a visitation at Carrillo's Tucson Mortuary between 8 and 9 am on Wednesday, January 29th. A Rosary and Mass will follow at 9:30 am at St. Augustine's Cathedral . The interment will be at 11:30 am at Holy Hope Cemetery The day will end with a reception at Manny's son's house, Manny Jr. His address is: 4401 S. Via Rio Azul