Manuel Jessy Aquino Sr.

Manuel Aquino Sr. was born on July 1, 1939 in Oxnard California to Andrew and Anita Aquino. He was the second of 12 siblings, Francis Mora d., Joe Aquino d., Delores Cervantes, Tony Aquino, Jesse Aquino d., Mary Ann Aquino d., Salvador Aquino, Albert Aquino d., Mary Jimenez, Lupe Aquino d., and Candy Beach. In Manuel's early years, the Aquino family settled into Chowchilla, where his father Andrew could manage and service the Southern-Pacific railroad tracks between Madera and Merced. Manuel enjoyed living in the Minturn area of Chowchilla where he and his siblings floated the river, raised animals and enjoyed country living. Upon graduating from Chowchilla High School, he was recruited to join the football and wrestling team at Porterville College were he studied mathematics and structural drafting. In early 1960’s Manuel was working in the LeGrand area when he came across the love of his life, Olga. He chased after her heart and was married in 1961. Manuel enjoyed spending time with his entire extended family. Every Sunday was an opportunity for each of his 12 siblings to bring their children to his parents house were they would all cook and enjoy the children and cousins. Manuel is the father of 5 wonderful children, Norma Fry, Sandra Torrence, Annette Aquino, Manuel Aquino Jr., and Thomas Aquino; 9 fantastic grandchildren, and 1 amazing great grandchild. When you would asked Manuel what he valued the most in his life, he would answer, “My wife Olga!” They were blessed with 56 years of marriage. Upon graduation from college, Manuel worked as a draftsman, drawing and designing plans for houses. In 1972, he decided to follow his heart and start a partnership business in agriculture with his brother Jesse. The business continues as a partnership with his children to provide for the family and has established a legacy for generations to come. He was a firm believer that if you were honest, hard working and smart, that you would be successful. These are qualities that he helped instill into two generations of his family. He enjoyed supporting any of the academic, athletic and extracurricular programs in which his children and grandchildren were involved. Manuel was a dedicated fan of Chowchilla High School. He could always be found wearing a red Chowchilla High School polo shirt while supporting his children and later, grandchildren. Manuel enjoyed good conversation with good friends and family and was a connoisseur of good food. In particularly, he enjoyed sea food and eating all the food he could see! We all have fond memories of family meals at Luca’s in Madera and Mario’s in Chowchilla. On Friday April 13th his large and giving heart decided it was now time to rest. Manuel’s services will be at St. Columba Catholic Church in Chowchilla, California. The Vigil will be from 4:00 -6:00 p.m., with the Rosary starting at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 19th. The Funeral services will be Friday, April 20th at 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Chowchilla District Cemetery. Please call St. Columba Catholic Church with any questions 559-665-3376. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Palm Memorial Worden Chapel, Chowchilla, California.