Manuel Elias Limones

USS NAVY VETERAN WWII

Sunrise: August 28, 1926

Sunset: March 25, 2021

Manuel E. Limones entered into peaceful rest in the early morning hours on March 25th, 2021, wherein he joined the love of his life, his Beloved Wife Concepcion G. Limones and Our Heavenly Father.

When he was placed on Hospice, his children and grandchildren were by his side. Our Father is survived by his Daughter, Connie G. Limones of Lake Arrowhead, Sons Manuel (Vera) Limones of Beaumont, and Greg Limones (Amber) of Colton. He is preceded in death by his infant Daughter Mary Ester Limones. He was a very loving Grandfather to 11 Grandchildren: Josette (Steven) Tracy, Joey (Rosa) Montes, Anthony (Heidi) Montes, Manny Limones III, Leslie (Lance) Hunt, Gregory Limones (Stephanie), Gina S. Limones, Rebecca (Al) Guereca, Ashley (Omar) Sanchez, his Caregiver Mariah Limones (Cody), and Christian Limones (Michelle); 20 Great-Grandchildren, and 6 Great-Great-Grandchildren. He is survived by his Sister Connie Sanchez (96) of San Bernardino, Brothers Pat (Grace) Limones of Gilroy, and Ernie (Yolanda) Mendoza of Gilroy; Brother-in-law Philip (Rosemarie) Garcia of Gilroy. Preceded in death by both Parents Pedro Limones of Redlands and Isidra Elias Mendoza of Gilroy/Redlands; Brother Ray Limones of Redlands, Sister Carmen Segovia of Redlands, and Brother David Mendoza of Riverside. He is also survived by many, many Nieces, Nephews, Compadres and Friends. He is so loved.

Today, we pause to honor his memory and celebrate a life very well lived. Our father was born on August 28, 1926, in the city of San Onofre (Oceanside), CA. Later, their family moved to Gilroy, California. Now, a young man, our father, with no hesitation, stepped forward to serve his country and enlisted into the USS Navy in December 1943 at a very tender age of 3 months into the age of turning 17 (his mother had to sign in order for him to serve). His active duty was on the USS Bunkerhill aircraft carrier and was a Tailgunner on the TBF Avenger - Torpedo bomber, fighting in the Pacific. He was a proud member to have been a part of liberating Japan. He spoke to us about his amazing experiences but not until we were adults. His stories were incredible. His pictures were of awe. Can you imagine such a young "boy" if you will, fighting the fight at the extreme time in history. Still amazes us. Our father was very proud Navy Veteran to have served his beloved Country during WWII.\par

Another proud moment for our father was at a Pow Wow by the Native American Indians hosted in Marin County. He was honored and received recognition for his service in the Military during WWII. The tribals from many areas presented him with an American Flag, honored him with a parade where he and chief lead the march, Drummers from different tribes drummed and honored him with the most beautiful drummer's song "Soldier Boy". Dancers performed, beautiful handmade gifts and his beloved wife and daughter danced the "Friendship" dance in his honor. Everyone was so proud of our Father. We are so proud.

Duty, Honor, Country and Family these are the values that defined Dad's character and made his generation great.

After serving his Country was completed, he returned to Gilroy where he eventually met the love of his life. They both worked the fields in Gilroy where their story began. They married March 7, 1947. They spent the first few years working in the fields in Gilroy, California. Very soon after had their first born daughter, Mary Ester. Sadly, passed away at the tender age of 6 months. Later, their daughter Connie was born, both daughters were born in San Jose, California. A year later, they moved to San Bernardino and two additional births followed, their son Manny; and 5 years later, their youngest son Greg. Dad worked several jobs including Santa Fe Railroad, labor work building the Hover Dam in Las Vegas, Kaiser Steel, last but not least, Norton Air Force Base as a civil employee from where he retired after 30 years. Dad was always a very hard worker to provide for his family. He was there for whoever was in need, in any way he could. Our family didn't have much but what a generous man our father was.

We know you are where you wanted to be Dad, with your beloved wife and in the presence of our Heavenly Father. We gather here today, not to say good bye, but to trust in God's promise of eternal life. We will see each other one day in His Heavenly Kingdom. Beloved Daddy, now soar with the "wings of the angels" on your final flight. We love you so much and you will forever be missed, until we meet again Our Beloved Father......Rest in Peace.

MASK WILL BE REQUIRED

Services will be held at one location on Monday, April 26, 2016 at Mt. View Mortuary/Cemetery, 570 E. Highland Avenue, San Bernardino, CA 92404 (909) 882-2943.

Viewing 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.; Catholic Church Services by Father Daniel at 10:30 a.m. and immediately following will be Committal with Flag ceremony presented by the Naval Service and a 7-Gun Salute by the VFW Post Volunteers. He will be laid to rest with his Beloved Wife.

With all due respect, due to Covid 19 there will be NO Reception, we sincerely apologize.

Note: A Special Recognition to his Granddaughter Mariah Limones who was caregiver for our Beloved Father. Thank you Mariah.