Manuel Tello

Manuel Alvarado Tello, also know as Menyul and to his sisters and Meme, passed away on Saturday, October 30, 2010 surrounded by his family and friends. He had been battling the effects of a stroke when complications from pneumonia arose. He is the son of Felix Manuel and Celia Alvarado Tello.

Manuel immigrated to the United States from Matehuala, San Luiz P.T.S. Mexico in 1949 and became a permanent resident in 1951.

Upon arrival to Oklahoma, he was retained by his Uncle Luiz Alvarado to work for El Charrito Company. After the merger of El Charrito with El Chico, he continued on as a district manager for that company until the early 1980’s.

In 1982, he joined Julian (Pepe) Gonzales and another partner and formed the Cancun Corporation. Cancun Corp. opened Pepe’s Restaurant in Edmond in 1982 and soon after opened another location in Oklahoma City called Laredo’s. Manuel worked at both locations and was a familiar sight to all who frequented these establishments. He managed the front of the house. Even though he was a managing partner, he was often seen sweeping floors, washing dishes, bussing tables and seating guests. He continued working until 4 weeks before his 88th birthday.

During his time as a restraunteur, his seemingly perpetual energy, unfailing courtesy, ready smile and generous nature endeared him to the hundreds of patrons who frequented the restaurant.

To his family and friends and sometimes to those who barely knew him, he was a paragon of strength, generosity, sage advice and support. To those who knew him best, he was surprisingly funny and was not above being silly at times. He could name all of the actors in any black and white movie. He could tell you which coffee shop had the best decaf. He also had an abiding passion for cookies.

He is survived by his daughter, Sylvia Tello and grandson Brody Glenn Shults, his daughter Carmen Mohi and son-in-law JD Mohi and grandchildren Sahar Marissa and Jordan Manuel and his son Marco Tello. He is also survived by Sisters Maria Isabel, Celia, Norma Idalia and Brothers Carlos and Felix. He will be missed by everyone who knew him.

The Rosary and wake will be held Thursday evening, November 4th at 7:00 p.m. at the Hahn-Cook chapel. The Funeral Mass will be held Friday, November 5th at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 5024 N Grove, Oklahoma City, OK 73122. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.