Manuel Gonzalez Escalante

Manuel was born on January 3, 1953, in Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, to Manuel S. Escalante and Margarita Escalante, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his siblings Mario Escalante Ramos, Manuel Escalante Ramos, Alejandrina Escalante Ramos, Frank Escalante, and Jose Luis Escalante. He is survived by his siblings Alicia Escalante Ramos, Willie Escalante, Lilia Escalante, and Alex Escalante.

Manuel spent his childhood in East Los Angeles, where he attended Hollenbeck Middle School and was surrounded by a large and loving family. During his teenage years, his family relocated to Santa Ana, California, where he attended Santa Ana High School. Santa Ana became the place where Manuel spent much of his early adulthood, creating lasting memories and laying the foundation for the life he would later build with his family. It was there that he met the love of his life, Debra Escalante. Together, they shared 53 devoted years of marriage and built a family rooted in love, loyalty, strength, and hard work.

Manuel proudly served his country in the Army National Guard and was activated during the Los Angeles riots. During his military service, he suffered a serious leg injury that required surgery. Following his honorable discharge, he settled in Hemet, California, and spent many years working in landscaping and pest control, including employment at Riverside National Cemetery and TruGreen. Later in life, he proudly worked for many years at Pechanga Resort Casino, where he formed many lasting friendships.

He found joy in life’s simple pleasures — listening to classic rock music, watching MASH*, and, most importantly, spending time with and supporting his family. In his later years, he helped raise his grandchildren and became a familiar and loving presence in the school pickup line. After school, he loved treating his grandchildren to dinner at some of his favorite local spots, especially Corky’s and Abby’s Cafe, where countless cherished memories were made around the table.

Manuel is survived by his loving wife, Debra Escalante; his four sons, Bobby Steele, Lonnie Steele, Manuel A. Escalante, and Daniel Escalante; and his cherished grandchildren, Anastasia Steele, Lonna Steele, Tatiana Steele, Regina Steele, Robert Steele, Matthew Holland, Brianna Escalante, Nathan Escalante, Eliana Escalante, Samantha Escalante, Juliet Escalante, and Danny Escalante. He was also preceded in death by his beloved grandchildren, Paloma Casares and Israel Bermudez. In addition, he leaves behind numerous great-grandchildren, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Manuel will always be remembered for his strength, loyalty, humor, and unwavering willingness to be there for others. His legacy of love, sacrifice, and dedication to family will live on in all who knew and loved him.