Henry Mancha

In quiet remembrance, we honor the life of Henry Francis Mancha. Henry was born on February 6, 1954 to Emilio and Henrietta Mancha. Growing up as one of eight children, Henry never lacked in camaraderie, affection, and laughter, laying the foundations later in life for his kind, generous, and hard-working character, and above all else, the immense value he placed in and felt for his family.

Henry grew up to marry his high school sweetheart, Herminia Mancha, with whom he raised a son, Thomas Francis Mancha. Fatherhood brought him unmeasured fulfillment and joy, especially in watching his son follow in his footsteps as an athlete at his alma mater, St. Thomas High School.

Known by his students as Mr. Mancha, Henry served as an assistant track and field coach at the Catholic high school where he and his five brothers attended and graduated, and where he won numerous awards competing in shot put. He took great pride in supporting the team to multiple State Championships. Student alumni often said that one of the best parts about returning to St. Thomas High School was knowing that Mr. Mancha would surely be there–cheering on his team, celebrating their achievements, and encouraging their growth as diligent athletes and as responsible leaders.

After over thirty years as a draftsman for Emerson, Henry was able to dedicate his time to coaching, serving his community as an active member of the Knights of Columbus, and showing his devotion to his faith as an usher for his home parish of Saint Maximilian Kolbe.

As a boy, Henry enjoyed staying up all hours of the night singing songs with his siblings and returning from Christmas midnight mass to home cooked tamales. Henry loved researching his genealogy and going out for dinner with friends and relatives. Known for his jocose nature, Henry’s smile could brighten anyone’s day. He was a stranger to none and friendly to everyone.

Henry is survived by his son Thomas Francis (Kaitlyn) Mancha, granddaughter Eleanor Francis Mancha, five siblings, Fr. George Mancha, Robert (Beatrice) Mancha, Mary Helen Arce, Yolanda Mary Rodriguez, and Jesse (Kelly) Mancha, and many nieces and nephews. Henry is preceded in death by his wife, Herminia Mancha, brothers Louis Mancha and Richard Mancha, mother Henrietta Mancha, and father Emilio Mancha.

Henry will be remembered for how he made others feel–loved and cared for.

“También me dijo un arriero/Que no hay que llegar primero/Pero hay que saber llegar” - Vicente Fernández (El Rey)