Manuel was born and raised in Bakersfield, Ca., he attended Our Lady of Guadalupe School, and then Garces Memorial High School, where he graduated in 1955. Manuel later enlisted in the United States Army and served from December 1959 to November 1965 as part of the 1st Battle Group, 35th Infantry (The Cacti); he was assigned Gunner for the 90MM S.P Gun and squad leader of his platoon. During his enlistment, he excelled because of his ambition, moral and fine performance of duty. Manuel later began his longtime career of 42 years for the United States Postal Service. He was a proud employee of the USPS and was regularly commended for his exceptional work ethic, level of performance and dependability. He was truly committed to his position as expediter/dispatcher, a true leader for all his co-workers.
Anyone blessed to know Manuel, “Chief”, knew that he was a selfless, simple, hard-working, and kind man; a man who always put his family first; his grandchildren were his pride and joy. He was loved and admired by everyone he knew; he was one of a kind. The kind of person that could light up a room without even knowing it. A man of few words, but so very wise and patient and full of gratitude for everything in his life. He will forever be missed and loved; always remembered as the greatest husband, father, brother, and friend.
Manuel is preceded in death by his mother and father, Manuel and Lucy Alderete and brother, Robert J. Alderete. Manuel is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Rose Marie Alderete; sons, Manuel (Susie), Brian (Kelly), James (Amy) and daughter Kristen Alderete; grandchildren, Kathryn, Manuel Jr., John, Elizabeth, Sofia, Olivia, and Lucianna Alderete. Brothers, Charlie, Benji, Sammy (Judy), sisters, Racheal, and Rosemary (Ernie); and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Visitation and rosary will be held Thursday, July 27, 2023 at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Mortuary, 9101 Kern Canyon Rd., Bakersfield, Ca 93306, from 5pm to 8pm, with rosary beginning at 6pm.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, July 28, 2023, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 601 E California Ave., at 10am; graveside to follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Mortuary. Pallbearers will be Manuel, Brian, James, Manuel Jr., John, Kathryn, Lucianna, Elizabeth, Sofia, and Olivia Alderete.
Please join us, following burial services, for a reception at the Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. “P” St., Gate #27, Bakersfield, Ca 93307.
The family would like to express their most sincere gratitude to the staff of Compassionate Care and Bristol Hospice for their dedication, kindness and exceptional care provided during such a challenging time.
