Manuel Rios Gomez

Manuel Rios Gomez, born in Colorado City, TX passed away on August 4, 2016 in his home at the age of 87. He was raised in Lordsburg, NM, and in his late teens, made Phoenix, AZ his home. He faithfully served his country as an Army Airborne Engineer for 9 years in the regular Army and Army National Guard. His career culminated as a Jump Master during the Korean War, and as an invaluable in-garrison asset, trained countless servicemen in airborne war tactics. He was a proud member of the 11th Airborne Division Group of the American Legion Post 41 and was always there when needed for parades and funerals. He’s best remembered for playing his guitar, singing, and spending time with his family.

He is preceded in death by his twin sister, Manuela Gomez; and parents, Fabian and Soledad Gomez. Manuel is survived by the love of his life Dora C. Gomez and his brother Sal Gomez. Manuel had seven sons; Fabian Gomez, Manuel Gomez, David Gomez, Ruben Gomez, Alfred Canez, Robert Lara, and George Lara and ten daughters; Anna Gomez, Janet Ongaro, Lori Abril, Becky Altuna, Pat Luna, Annamaria Sanchez, Diana Ramirez, Stella Novoa, Margaret Medrano, and Lupe Orosco, and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM on Wednesday, August 10, 2016 at Greenwood Memory Lawn Mortuary, 719 N. 27th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85009. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Thursday, August 11, 2016 at St. Mary’s Basilica, 231 N. 3rd St., Phoenix, AZ 85004.