Ferdinand Manrique

He was born on February 26, 1967, in Tacloban, Philippines. Ferdie’s journey came full circle in the community he called home. Best friend and loving husband to Gemma (nee Diaz). He was a devoted family man and an indulgent papa to his beautiful children, Gabriel (Hannah) and Catalina. His memory is also cherished by those who knew him as a loving and generous individual devoted to the people around him. He was a supportive brother to Felizardo III (Monette), Federico (Emma), Jane (Dan), Val (Vonic), and Franco (Alice). He also had siblings in the Philippines: Grace, Liberty, and Lito. Additionally, he was a good brother-in-law to Emmanuel (Rebecca) and Emerson, and he is survived by his mother-in-law, Encarnacion. He was a beloved great-uncle to many nieces and nephews in Canada and the Philippines. He was predeceased by his mother, Juana; his father, Felizardo Manrique Jr.; and his father-in-law, Ener Diaz.

A man of simple joys and steadfast passions, Ferdie found happiness in going for long drives—moments of peace that allowed him to connect with the world around him. He enjoyed the thrill of lottery tickets and was an avid foodie. These pastimes brought him joy and often served as a way to bond with others.

In remembering Ferdie, let us aspire to reflect the friendliness and joy he so generously shared with everyone he met. For 16 months, Ferdie fought a rare form of cancer– a reflection of his truly unique and extraordinary spirit. He faced every challenge with incredible bravery and steadfast determination to keep going. Although this unrelenting illness has taken him from us, the brilliance of his spirit and the impact he made will continue to prevail in our hearts. We take comfort in knowing that you will walk with us, guide us, and protect us with your strength.

Thank you to the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto General, General Hospital, and St. Joseph Health Care Centre for Ferdinand's excellent care these last few months.

A visitation will be held in his honor on Thursday, May 8, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Hart Chapel, located at 1099 Gordon Street in Guelph. Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 am on Friday, May 9th, 2025, at the Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate, 28 Norfolk St., Guelph. Interment to follow at Marymount Catholic Cemetery, 5400 Highway 6 North, Guelph.

Family and friends are invited to gather to remember a life filled with warmth and devotion at the Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Funeral Home lounge, following the interment.